Live Nativity Pageant makes Christmas special

By Christine Foshaug Times Contributor

Something special is happening in Strathmore the weekend before Christmas. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is hosting “A Night in Bethlehem – A Live Nativity Pageant.”
In years past they’ve done a nativity display, but this year they wanted to try something new. The outdoor production will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Dec. 21 and Dec. 22, with a performance every 30 minutes. Each performance will last about 14 minutes, with two separate casts for the two nights.
Fifty actors will take part in the pageant, but there are many important people behind the scenes as well. From sound and lighting, set design and construction, costumes and makeup to advertising and refreshments, it’s been a true team effort. The production will also feature live animals.
The actors will be accompanied by a recorded track, which will be a combination of narration (from the New Testament in Luke 2) and several Christmas carols.
“As this is the first year doing a live nativity, one thing that makes it special is we are all working together to create something that will be memorable, for the participants as well as the community,” explained pageant director Loralee Laycock. “The opportunity to celebrate the Christmas story in this way is very special as well, as it brings to life a traditional story in a new and hopefully meaningful way.”
Everyone is welcome to attend this free event and enjoy refreshments and fellowship following each performance. The church is located at 60 Maplewood Drive. Make sure to dress for the weather, since it’s an outdoor event.
“Hopefully people will leave feeling the Christmas spirit,” said Laycock. “We recognize that everyone celebrates Christmas in different ways, and hopefully they can add the nativity pageant to their annual Christmas traditions for years to come.”