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A CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

LIFE Christmas Production 2019

13/11/2019

Changes in GREEN

Summary of changes:
● Lines sharpened and drama “toned down”.
● Drama approach is “serious with quirky moments”. The goal of
the drama is to draw people in through relatable characters,
use lighthearted moments to build rapport and keep the show
entertaining, and ultimately touch lives with the reality of
Jesus so people are emotionally moved.
● Changes to start and finish of some drama scenes to better
transition with items
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CONTENTS

CHARACTERS 2

SEGMENT 1 – “WALK-IN” (MC) 7

SEGMENT 2 – “LET IT SNOW + GET HER” (OPENING SONG/DANCE) 8

Segment 2a: “LET IT SNOW” (SONG) (0.00 minutes) 9
Segment 2b: “GET HER!” (DRAMA) (0.00 minutes) 9

SEGMENT 3 – “THE CHASE + MEET MALACHI” (VIDEO/DRAMA) 10

SEGMENT 3a – “THE CHASE” (VIDEO) (0.00 minutes) 11
SEGMENT 3b – “MEET MALACHI” (DRAMA) (0.00 minutes) 11

SEGMENT 4 – “CAROL OF THE BELLS” (SONG/DRAMA) 16

SEGMENT 5 – “CAESAR’S DECREE” VIDEO/DRAMA 17

SEGMENT 6 – “EVERYONE LIVED IN FEAR” (DANCE INSTRUMENTAL) 19

SEGMENT 7 – “GABRIEL VISITS MARY” (DRAMA) 20

SEGMENT 8 – “O COME, O COME EMMANUEL” (SONG) 22

SEGMENT 9 – “JESUS IS BORN” (VIDEO/DRAMA) 23

SEGMENT 10 – “PO MARIE/SILENT NIGHT” (SONG) 26

SEGMENT 11 – “WISE MEN” DRAMA 27

SEGMENT 12 – “WE THREE KINGS” (SONG) 29

SEGMENT 13 – “SHEPHERDS” (DRAMA) 30

SEGMENT 14 – “THE FIRST NOEL” (SONG) 32

SEGMENT 15 – “WISE MEN & SHEPHERDS WORSHIP JESUS” (DRAMA) 33

SEGMENT 16 – “HE SHALL REIGN” (SONG) 34

SEGMENT 17 – “PASSING ON THE BOOK” (DRAMA) 35

SEGMENT 18 – “BORN IS THE KING/IT’S CHRISTMAS” (SONG) 37

SEGMENT 19 – MC (NEXT STEPS, DECISIONS) 38

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CHARACTERS

SARAH (8-12 y/o YOUNG GIRL). Sarah is the main character of the
story. She has recently entered Miss Feathers’ foster home.
Although she appreciates the kindness of Miss Feathers, she is a
little scared of the new environment and the other habitants. She
lost her parents to a fire and the only remaining item she has is a
bag. This bag is her most precious possession and the only reminder
she has of her past life. Her parents were her biggest encouragers,
but without them she has lost hope. The story of Christmas has a
profound impact on Sarah. She is overwhelmed that the God of the
universe has included “ordinary Sarah” into His story. Although she
feels like she’s in darkness, she recognizes that God has brought
“light”. Her sense of worth is restored, her hope is renewed and at
the script’s end, she deeply desires for others to experience what
she has gone through.

Above: Costuming ideas for Sarah/Beth/Foster Kids. Image: Stranger Things S3

MALACHI (60 – 70 y/o Male BOOKSTORE KEEPER). Malachi is an angel

sent by God to intervene in Sarah’s story. God causes Malachi and
his bookstore to appear “just at the right time” to touch Sarah’s
life. Malachi is a little quirky, but kind and warm. He makes Sarah
feel safe, and invokes a longing for adventure. He is passionate
about books and helping people discover God.

Above: Costuming ideas for Malachi. Image: Never Ending Story I

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Above: Costuming ideas for Malachi. Image: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

BETH (12-15 y/o BULLYING FOSTER GIRL). Beth has been at the foster
home since it started four years ago. She was abandoned by her
Mother and has had to fend for herself on the streets. She asserts
herself in the home and has positioned herself as the dominant
leader. At the core, she’s scared and lonely. She hasn’t dreamt
about a better life as she’s living day to day. Beth wants Sarah to
know that she is to fall under her leadership. Beth has done this
with every new entrant to the home. Miss Feathers doesn’t see this
dynamic.

MISS FEATHERS (30-40 y/o WOMAN). Miss Feathers is a single, young

and passionate woman with an empathetic heart to help kids in need.
She comes from a middle class family and forsook a career to start
the foster home. She doesn’t see some of the social dynamics
between the kids because she’s always thinking about how to make
extra money and bring the children joy. She is a lovely woman who
loves the children, but will sometimes weep in private when praying
for them.

GABRIEL (30-40 y/o MAN). Gabriel is an angel, a messenger of God.

He’s one of 1000’s on the team. He’s a little socially awkward and
often will “just appear”, startling whomever he’s appearing to. He
is dressed like a postman in Sarah’s imagination.
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Above: Costuming ideas for Gabriel. Image: Google “80s Postman”

MARY (20 y/o WOMAN). Mary is a young, hardworking and devout girl.
She puts God and family first. She has been recently engaged to
Joseph. Sarah imagines Mary as a typical young woman in the era,
with hair similar to Blondie.

Above: Styling ideas for Mary. Image: Google “Blondie”

JOSEPH (20 y/o MAN). Joseph has similar values to Mary. He young
and sincere. He too is styled as a typical young man in the 80s.

Above: Styling ideas for Mary/Joseph/Miss Feathers. Image: Breakfast Club

CAESAR (MAN): Non-speaking role. Caesar is a political leader.

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SHEPHERDS (x4): Style TBC. Non-speaking roles. I suggest that we

could style them as a “boy band” (mixed gender is fine) in double
denim? Adapt script to suit cast and personalities?

Above: Styling ideas for Shepherds. Image: Google “Double Denim Gang”

WISE PEOPLE (x3): Non-speaking roles. These wise characters are the
innovators of the world we live in today. Think Zuckerberg, Jobs,
Gates. These characters are avid Star Trek fans. If possible, we
should introduce a whiteboard with galaxy drawings and Star Trek
related symbols and imagery.

Above: Styling ideas for Wise People. Image: Google “Steve Jobs”
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Above: Styling ideas for Wise People. Image: Google “Bill Gates Youth”
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SEGMENT 1 – “WALK-IN” (MC)

SET: TBC. Department store in Christmas theme. Style similar to

department store in “Home Alone 2”:

Above: Locations from Home Alone 2. Image: Google “Home Alone 2 Department Store”

Above: Cartier on Collins Street, Melbourne CBD. Image: Google “Cartier Melbourne”

Could borrow theme from Stranger Things 3:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXyju7zFwyE

MUSIC: Christmas Playlist (TBC)

MC welcomes everyone and introduces the spectacular. Exists

stage left and the lights go down.
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SEGMENT 2 – “LET IT SNOW + GET HER” (OPENING SONG/DANCE)

SET: Department store in Christmas theme.

“Mannequins” positioned to the left and right of the singers

(one or two per side).

Lights fade on.

Singers enter and set up, preparing for a gig at the mall to
entertain. The song starts slow and builds. During the song,
the mannequins dance along.

Segment 2a: “LET IT SNOW” (SONG) (0.00 minutes)

Segment 2b: “GET HER!” (DRAMA) (0.00 minutes)

Kids enter the from SL together.

Authors note: Take a look at dynamic of item

leading into drama

BETH: Come on guys. We don’t have long to hang out and

have fun. Miss Feathers has organized a Christmas
street choir and it starts in a few hours!

The kids break up and start looking around the

mall. Beth walks over to Sarah.

BETH: Hey Sarah. You’re new around here. You like the
foster home?

SARAH: It’s okay…

BETH: Yeah. It ain’t much, but it’s better than being on

the streets. Listen, it can be tough in the house.
But you’ll be fine if you follow the golden rule.

SARAH: (Avoiding eye contact) What’s the golden rule?

BETH: Well, you might think that Miss Feathers is the

boss because she butters our bread. But the golden
rule is “do what Beth says” (pointing at herself)
because I’m the boss!

SARAH: (Avoidant) Yeah, ok…

BETH: What did you say?

SARAH: (Louder) I said, YEAH, ok…

The kids start surrounding Sarah and Beth.

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BETH: Yeah, that’s what I thought! Hey - what’s this old

thing? (Snatches bag from Sarah)

SARAH: No, that’s mine! Please give it back, it’s very

precious to me…

BETH: (Mocking) “It’s very precious to me”. Well, I

think it’s a stupid old bag. I’m the boss and I’ll
decide what happens to it!

Hands it to one of the kids who start handing it

around.

KIDS: (Taunting) Yeah, Beth’s boss!

That’s right!
What she says, goes!
Yeah!

Sarah is chasing bag.

SARAH: (Near tears) No, that bag is mine, please, it’s

all I have!

Sarah manages to grab the bag and runs off SR.

KIDS: Get her, Beth!

Yeah, Beth!
Go on, get her Beth!

Sarah runs off SR, Beth follows.

Lights down. Kids exit SR.

Transition to Segment 3 – Video/Drama.

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SEGMENT 3 – “THE CHASE + MEET MALACHI” (VIDEO/DRAMA)

SEGMENT 3a – “THE CHASE” (VIDEO) (0.40 minutes)

Sarah is running with the bag, with Beth following. They run
past a number of locations through the city streets. Sarah
hides around corners and avoids Beth at “80’s” theme
buildings, facades and/or locations. Sarah eventually finds
refuge in an old bookstore. Beth runs past the bookstore, not
knowing Sarah is inside, ending the chase.

Transition from video to live action.

SEGMENT 3b – “MEET MALACHI” (DRAMA) (0.00 minutes)

Sarah enters the bookstore backyards, looking through the windows

to ensure that Beth is no longer chasing her. She then observes her
surroundings and cautiously looks around, clutching the bag
tightly. Malachi is behind the counter.

MALACHI: Hello?

Helloooo!

Sarah does not hear Malachi at first, because she

is concerned with Beth. She then hears him, turns
around a little frightened.

Welcome to the DownTown Bookstore, because we’re

downtown you see. Where “our stories can become
your stories!”

SARAH: I don’t ever remember seeing this place before…

MALACHI: Oh, really now?

(Twinkle of the eye) Perhaps you weren’t looking
for it?

SARAH: I’m pretty sure there was a Toys ‘R Us here? You

know, Cabbage Patch Kids, Commodore 64’s, Magic
Eight Balls, Rubix Cubes?

MALACHI: Toys ‘R Us? No, this is “Books R US”! No cabbage

64’s, or, magic commodore cubes here! We’ve been
here for a very long time! But, people tend to find
it just when they need it.

SARAH: If you say so. Who are you anyways? You don’t look
like you’re from around here…

MALACHI: I’m Malachi! I’m a stories expert, a teller of

tales, an expert sword fighter, and, well, enough
about me. Who are you, young lady?
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SARAH: I’m Sarah… I’m a… 12-year-old girl?

MALACHI: A pleasure to meet you, Sarah! I can’t help but

notice your bag, it’s old but beautiful. I can see
that it’s very important to you?

SARAH: It is… Beth tried to take it from me, she’s been

bullying me ever since I entered the home. This
bag, is mine… it’s special… but Beth-

MALACHI: -Oh, and who is this Beth?

SARAH: Beth is one of the big girls at the foster home.

She’s like the boss, well, Miss Feathers is the
boss, but Beth’s the one who really calls the
shots. She grabbed my bag at the mall and the other
kids wouldn’t give it back.

MALACHI: What’s so special about your bag?

SARAH: Nothing! I mean… it’s the only thing that I have

that reminds me of… it reminds me of my parents…

(silent reflection)

…but anyway, it’s mine and I don’t have many things

of my own…

MALACHI: Sounds like quite the story. I can see sadness in

your eyes, like the book of your life has been
closed. But I have a feeling that your story isn’t
over just yet!

SARAH: What do you mean?

MALACHI: Every life has a story, penned by the master

author. Our stories are full of adventures, quests
and excitement! But… they there are moments of
sadness, peril and challenges… You are the hero of
the story Sarah, can you see it? Now tell me. What
is it that you want from your story?

SARAH: To get away from Beth!

MALACHI: “’To get away from Beth!’, said Sarah with a gleam
in her eye as she jumped behind the counter!

SARAH: Wait, what? Why would I jump behind the counter?

MALACHI: Because that’s Beth through the window.

SARAH: Oh, no!

Sarah hides behind the counter as Beth enters. Beth

looks around the store, searching impatiently.

MALACHI: Hello! Welcome to DownTown Bookstore, where “our

stories can become your stories!”.
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BETH: Did a stupid girl with a bag come in here, old man?

MALACHI: There’s no-one stupid in this store. Only heroes,

having adventures and living their best life!

BETH: I coulda’ sworn that I saw her through the window.

She’s a troublemaker. She has something that
belongs to me. Just because Miss Feathers likes
her, doesn’t mean that I have to.

MALACHI: Oh, what did this Sarah do?

BETH: Look, is she here or not?

(Malachi looks around)

BETH: Whatever old man.

Beth exits the scene.

MALACHI: It’s quite alright, Sarah, you can come out now.

SARAH: Is she gone?

MALACHI: For the moment. What a curious child!

SARAH: Why can’t she just leave me alone?

MALACHI: Heroes don’t become great because they sit around

watching television! They become great because they
overcome obstacles! They climb mountains, and fight
goblins, and rescue puppies, and, and-

Stops suddenly and looks at Sarah.

Do you like books, Sarah?

SARAH: Yeah…

MALACHI: Well, I have something that might help with your

troubles.

Malachi goes behind the counter (or searches within

a large pile of books) and fumbles around. He
uncovers a big, old book and blows dust from its
cover.

This, young lady, is the GREATEST story of all.

SARAH: Really? The “greatest”? Even better than Baby

Sitters Club?

MALACHI: Oh, yes! Even better than whatever you just said!
It’s a simple tale, yet one that is bigger than all
the galaxies combined. There are kings, farmers,
wise philosophers, shepherds, evil forces, powerful
beings, cute barnyard animals… and a “Sarah”.
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SARAH: About me?

MALACHI: (Offering the book) Would you like to read it?

SARAH: I’m sorry, but I don’t have any money…

MALACHI: Oh, I’m not selling this book! This story can never
belong to just one person. You’ll find that after
you’ve read it, you’ll want to pass it on to
another in your world.
SARAH: But there aren’t any others in my world. I’ve lost
everything…

MALACHI: That may well be, but I have a feeling that’s all
about to change. But be warned! Should you dare to
open this book and allow it’s story to speak to
you, your life will never, ever, be the same.

SARAH: (Pauses to think) I… I don’t want my life to be

the same.

MALACHI: Then here! The words in this book will come alive.
Use your imagination and this story will become
your own…

Sarah takes the book and sits down. She opens it

and starts reading while Malachi prepares books.

The children start forming the choir outside the

bookstore in a separate part of the stage.

SARAH: (Reading out loud) “This is no ordinary story.

It’s a tale as old as time itself, positioned above
all works of fact and fiction; past, present and
future. Those who are brave enough to peer upon
it’s pages will discover a truth that never
changes. This book has the power to change a life…
forever”

Piano music fades in, Sarah realises that she is

late for choir.

SARAH: Oh no, the choir, I completely forgot!

Sarah leaves the bookshop hurriedly, walks behind

set and joins the choir stage left.

Item for “CAROL OF THE BELLS”.

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SEGMENT 4 – “CAROL OF THE BELLS” (SONG/DRAMA)

SET: City streets in Christmas theme.

SONG: “CAROL OF THE BELLS”

Song finishes, crowd applauds.

MISS FEATHERS: Thank you, thank you!

Sarah backs off and hides.

Let’s give the choir a round of applause! The

children and I so appreciate your kindness
during this festive season. God bless you sir,
bless you ma’am.

Turns to the children. While Miss Feathers is

talking, Beth is looking for Sarah.

Well! That was fun and quite successful! You

guys have some beautiful voices. With all the
money raised so far, we can afford a wonderful
Christmas meal together. I’m off to purchase a
ham and some fruitcake!

Miss Feathers and the children leave SL.

Sarah backs away and from the kids. Beth
looks for her but gives us and leaves. Sarah
pulls out the book and Malachi joins her (the
idea is that it’s night and the store is now
closed).

Transition to SEGMENT 5 Video/Drama.

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SEGMENT 5 – “CAESAR’S DECREE” VIDEO/DRAMA

SET: City streets in Christmas theme.

Sarah steps out from behind her hiding place and Malachi
appears to give her the book.

SARAH: This book… it feels different… it feels big

somehow…

MALACHI: That’s how everyone feels when they hold this book.
Why don’t we read it together?

SARAH: Ok.

TOM and MALACHI shift position so they’re both

looking into the book.

MALACHI: (Reading) “It’s a tale as old as time itself,

positioned above all works of fact and fiction-”

SARAH: I’ve read this part already. We’re here now.

MALACHI: Oh! Of course! Now let me see…

(Reading) “In the beginning, God created a

wonderful world, full of life. His most precious
creation, man and woman, ”

PLAY VIDEO (0.0 min)

Authors Note: Depending on what NZ has in terms of

video, we might allocate all reading to Malachi.

MALACHI (V/O): “God filled this world with beauty

and light. He brought forth man and
woman, His prize creation. He walked
with them daily in the garden, but
they betrayed Him and the world
became darker.”

SARAH (V/O): “Mankind spread all over the earth.

Tribes formed. Kings rose and fell.
Nations were born, prospered and
warred with one another.”

MALACHI (V/O): “A great civilization emerged, the

likes of which the world had never
seen – the mighty Roman Empire.”

SARAH (V/O): “The empire was more powerful than

anyone could have imagined. People of
different colours, lands, languages
and cultures were forced to bow down
to it – or face it’s armies.”
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MALACHI (V/O): “One of the empire’s greatest leaders

was Caesar Augustus.”

Visuals on video – CAESAR shown as a

shadowy figure standing on a hilltop?
Surveying forest land without
buildings, waterfalls, mountains,
showing vastness (does NZ have
ancient enough buildings we could
show?)

SARAH (V/O): “Caesar was a harsh ruler, as proud as he was

arrogant. For his own ego, he demanded to know
how many people he ruled over within the
entire Roman empire.”

MALACHI (V/O): “So Caesar made a decree that every person was
ordered to travel back to their hometown to be
counted; to register their names and the names
of their families.”

SARAH (V/O): “The people didn’t have a choice. The people

were slaves to Caesar under the infliction of
the Roman army. They had to obey.”

MALACHI (V/O): “Although God’s chosen people suffered under

Caesar’s rule, but they had hope: an ancient
prophecy spoke to a Saviour, born from a royal
lineage, who would establish a new kingdom and
restore God’s people to glory.”

SARAH (V/O): “The people prayed to God that the Saviour

would come and rescue them. They prayed for
years, for decades, for centuries… but it
seemed that nothing was happening.”

MALACHI (V/O): “God’s people lived in fear, scared and

vulnerable, constantly watched and expecting
to be punished unfairly. And now, under the
instruction of Caesar, many had to uproot
their lives and return to their hometowns to
be counted.”

Lights down on TOM and MALACHI. They exit in

darkness.

Transition to next segment.

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SEGMENT 6 – “EVERYONE LIVED IN FEAR” (DANCE INSTRUMENTAL)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Lights up on singer.
Staging TBA.

SONG: “LIBERATE”

SINGER
LYRICS

MALACHI and TOM re-enter in darkness.

Tinkly SFX take us back into the

world of the storybook story.

Transition to Segment 7 - Drama.

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SEGMENT 7 – “GABRIEL VISITS MARY” (DRAMA)

Set: Streets in Christmas theme.

Lights up on MALACHI and TOM as they look at the book

together.

SARAH: Malachi, this story feels really dark…

MALACHI: It does. Whether we like it or not, darkness is

often part of everyone’s story. But, as you’ll see,
the darkest night comes before the brightest
morning. Read on…

SARAH: (Reading) “God heard the prayers of the people,

and had been making plans to send the promised
Saviour. When the time was right, God sent a
messenger to a girl named Mary.”

Mary enters and starts sweeping. Both Malachi and

Sarah look over to her.

MALACHI: I like what you’ve done with her hair!

Gabriel appears from behind the set.

GABRIEL: Heeey!

Mary looks up startled and stands, holding out the

broom defensively.

MARY: Who are you? What do you want?

GABRIEL: Greetings, Mary, do not be afraid!

MARY: What do you mean “don’t be afraid?”. You

did just “pop up” out of no-where…

GABRIEL: Good point. I really have to work on that…

Anyway, Mary. My name is Gabriel and God
is with you! He sees you and he loves you.
I have been sent to give you important
news.

SARAH: (Reading) “Mary was confused and

wondered what this news could possibly
be.”

MARY: I’m so confused and wonder what this news

could possibly be?

GABRIEL: It’s the very best news, Mary. God is

sending His own Son into the world as a
baby. And you are going to be the mother
of that baby.
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MARY: What? How? I don’t know a man?

GABRIEL: You don’t know any men? Not even one?

MARY: No… I don’t know a man…

GABRIEL: Ohhhhh, right. Well, you won’t need to!

The Holy Spirit will come upon you and you
will become pregnant. Nothing is
impossible with God.

MARY: What about Joseph? We were recently

engaged… how will he understand…

GABRIEL: Joseph will understand. A messenger has

also been sent to him to bring him up-to-
speed. I think God sent Raphael to him,
he’s a good guy. So, what do you think?

MARY: (Pauses as she takes this all in)

I… don’t know… I… so be it! I am the

maidservant of the Lord. Let it be
according to your word!

SARAH: (Reading) “Everything Mary knew was

about to change. She took center stage in
the next part of God’s grand narrative.
She was to have a baby, whose name was
Jesus, or Emmanuel, meaning ‘God with us’.

Lights down on TOM and MALACHI. They exit in darkness.

Intro begins for “O COME, O COME EMMANUEL”.

Transition to next segment.

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SEGMENT 8 – “O COME, O COME EMMANUEL” (SONG)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Lights up on singer.
Staging TBA.

SONG - “O COME, O COME EMMANUEL”

SINGER
LYRICS

MALACHI and SARAH re-enter in

darkness.

Tinkly SFX take us into the world of

the storybook story.

Transition to Segment 9 –
Video/Drama.
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SEGMENT 9 – “JESUS IS BORN” (VIDEO/DRAMA)

Set: Streets in Christmas theme. Nativity set brought on??

Lights up on MALACHI and SARAH as they look at the book
together.

SARAH: This story is amazing. Having “God’s baby” would’ve

changed everything for Mary and Joseph.

MALACHI: It certainly did. But as always, God’s timing was

perfect. Read what happened next.

SARAH: (Reading) “Because of the Caesar’s decree, Mary

and her now husband Joseph had to travel back to
their hometown to be counted in the great census.

Video (0.00 min)

MALACHI (V/O): (Reading) “Even though Mary was close to

giving birth, they were forced to travel for
many miles. They travelled through deep
valleys and tall forests, desert plains and
sea shores, following the dusty road until
they reached the town of Bethlehem.”

SARAH (V/O): (Reading) “Because there were so many who

had come to be counted, there was nowhere left
for Mary and Joseph to stay. They went from
place to place, seeking accommodation but
finding none. A kind innkeeper at the final
lodgings in town took pity on them. Although
he had no rooms, he offered his stable. Mary
and Joseph had no choice but to sleep in a
barn with the livestock.”

MALACHI (V/O): (Reading) “And right there, in the thick of

the muck, Mary have birth to a baby: the
Saviour of the world, the King of Kings, born
in the most humble of places, surrounded by
simple farm animals.”

Video cuts to shots away from MARY

and JOSEPH – e.g. bales of hay, farm
animals – so we’re not seeing MARY
and JOSEPH on screen at the same time
as they appear live on stage.

MARY and JOSEPH enter live on stage.

Small nativity set on wheeled
platform. Hay bales, manger etc.

We switch back to SARAH and MALACHI

speaking live.

SARAH: I can’t believe it. Why was the savior born in a

stable? He’s a king… God’s own son… Yet God chose
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Mary and Joseph? They’re just ordinary people! What

if there were complications with the birth? What if
they mess it up?

Malachi remains silent, smiling knowingly and

indicates for Sarah to continue reading.

(Reading) “Mary wrapped Jesus in cloth and laid

him down in a bed of hay in a manger, a wooden
trough used to feed the animals. Mary and Joseph
were so thankful to God that they were part of His
story. They could hardly believe that God himself
had come to earth as a baby – their baby. But they
knew that Jesus didn’t just belong to them. He had
a divine calling on His life and would deeply
desire to belong to everyone on the earth.”

JOSEPH: Even you, Sarah.

SARAH: …You can see me?

MARY: Yes, Sarah, we can see you.

SARAH: But this is just a story… it’s not real is it?

JOSEPH: It’s as real as the stars in the sky and the ground
beneath your feet.

MARY: Sarah, would you like to be part of it?

SARAH: How?

MARY: Come and see.

Sarah walks over the Mary and Joseph and they look upon Jesus.

MARY: Even though these things happened long ago, this

moment echoes through time. It was the beginning of
God’s grand narrative to rescue His people.

JOSEPH: This includes you Sarah. You are part of what

happened on this special night: the very first
Christmas.

Transition to Segment 10 - song.

SEGMENT 10 – “JESSIE J/SILENT NIGHT” (SONG)

SCENE/SET – as before.

CHRISTMAS STREET BACKGROUND WITH NATIVITY FOREGROUND

TOM, MALACHI, MARY and JOSEPH are

staged as part of the song.

Lights up on singer.
 24

SONG - “JESSIE J/SILENT NIGHT”

SINGER
LYRICS

Transition to Segment 11 - Drama.

 25

SEGMENT 11 – “WISE MEN” DRAMA

SET: TBC

MALACHI and SARAH watch the nativity scene as they talk together.

SARAH: Now I understand that Jesus is the light in this

story, the light in the darkness.

MALACHI: That’s right Sarah. Let’s keep reading. The story

isn’t finished yet.

SARAH: (Reading) “While Jesus was born in Bethlehem, in

another part of the world, a group of wise people
had made a startling discovery.”

Lights come up on WISE MEN in another part of the

auditorium. They are dressed as 80s tech innovators
and are scribbling on a whiteboard and discussing
amongst themselves.

Throughout, the WISE MEN interact with each other,

acting out what’s spoken in V/O.

MALACHI: (Reading) “These men knew all about the stars and
planets. They had studied all their movements and
charted their courses.”

SARAH: They look like Trekkies!

MALACHI: Like what?

SARAH: Watch this. HEY GUYS! “Long live and prosper”!

Wise men look up and do the Star Trek symbol,

nodding in agreement.

MALACHI: (Shrugs) Hey, this is your imagination, not mine.

Let’s keep reading.

SARAH: (Reading) “When a brand new star appeared in the

sky, the Trekkies were filled with wonder, because
nothing like this had ever happened before. They
watched the heavens changing right before their
eyes and realized that something very important was
happening.”

MALACHI: (Reading) “As they worked together to understand

what this meant, they looked for answers within the
ancient texts. The prophecy spoke of a star that
would appear, signaling the arrival of the
Saviour.”

SARAH: (Reading) “The wise men knew that this new star
was the sign in the ancient prophecy – that the
King of Kings had arrived.”
 26

The WISE MEN walk through the audience.

MALACHI: (Reading) “Filled with excitement, the wise men

set off to follow the star and find the Saviour of
the world.”

Transition to Segment 12 – WE THREE KINGS.

 27

SEGMENT 12 – “WE THREE KINGS” (SONG)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Staging TBA.

TOM, MALACHI, MARY and JOSEPH remain

on stage.

SONG - “WE THREE KINGS”

SINGER
LYRICS

Transition to SEGMENT 13 Video/Drama.

 28

SEGMENT 13 – “SHEPHERDS” (DRAMA)

SET: T.B.C.

MALACHI and SARAH watch the nativity scene as they talk

together.

SARAH: Wow. God even used a star to bring people into His
story.

MALACHI: God has a way of bringing in the unlikeliest of

people, at the unlikeliest times, through the
unlikeliest of ways.

SARAH: Like a 12-year-old girl, in 1989, through a certain

magical bookstore?

MALACHI: Noted. Read on!

SARAH: (Reading) “While the wise men followed the star,

in another part of the land a group of shepherds
were keeping watch over their sheep.”

Shepherds enter

MALACHI: (Reading) “For these shepherds, it was

another ordinary night. But unbeknownst to
them, their lives were about to intersect with
the divine and change forever.”

SARAH: (Reading) “As the shepherds stood watch over

the sheep that night, they were covered by a
bright, blinding light. They were terrified-”

(shepherds react to the light)

“-and didn’t understand what was happening.

But God had sent a messenger to bring them
wonderful news.”

GABRIEL: Do not be afraid! (even though I’ve appeared

suddenly in a bright light). Today, in the
town, a Saviour has been born. He is the
Messiah and He is the Lord. This will be a
sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in
cloth and lying in a manger, waiting to be
visited by a group of shepherds.”

SHEPHERDS: (looking confused, shrugging)

GABRIEL: Ok, so enter the south gate, take the fourth

left and follow until the end. Look for
Maharam’s farm stay (you can’t miss it).
 29

The shepherds talk amongst themselves as

Gabriel exits scene.

SARAH (V/O): (Reading) “The shepherds were amazed at the

angel’s message and decided to go and see this
miracle. So they hurried off to Bethlehem to
see Jesus for themselves.”

Transition to SEGMENT 14 Song – THE FIRST NOEL.

 30

SEGMENT 14 – “THE FIRST NOEL” (SONG)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Staging TBA.

TOM, MALACHI, MARY and JOSEPH remain

on stage.

SONG - “THE FIRST NOEL”

SINGER
LYRICS

Transition to SEGMENT 15 Drama.

 31

SEGMENT 15 – “WISE MEN & SHEPHERDS WORSHIP JESUS” (DRAMA)

SET: TBC

WISE MEN and SHEPHERDS are now all part of the nativity scene.
SARAH and MALACHI are reading the book together.

MALACHI: (Reading) “For those looking to the promise of a

Saviour, many expected a great king to enter the
story in splendor. Yet, instead of a ceremony
attended by royalty, emperors and lords; the hope
of mankind was born in a stable, surrounded by the
ordinary, the faithful and the wise.”

SARAH: (Reading) “During a time of darkness, came the

light of the world. The birth, life, death and
resurrection of Jesus rescued humanity. Jesus gave
hope to the hopeless, comfort to the brokenhearted
and freedom to the oppressed.”

MALACHI: (Reading) “Although these events happened long

ago, Jesus embraces all who come to him, no matter
who you are, where you are, or when you are. He has
a plan and a future for you, one of hope, one of
great purpose. This isn’t the end of the story,
rather it’s the beginning. The story continues…
with you.”

SARAH closes the book and looks reflectively at it.

MALACHI: “Sarah, God wants everyone to know his

love. And now you know that God has a
story for your life and for humankind.”

SARAH: “I think my story is going to be different

now.”

Transition to SEGMENT 16 Song.

Lights go down on TOM and MALACHI. They exit in darkness.

Nativity characters exit. Nativity set is moved off stage.

 32

SEGMENT 16 – “HE SHALL REIGN” (SONG)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Staging TBA.

SONG - “HE SHALL REIGN”

SINGER
LYRICS

Bookstore set pieces are brought back

on stage.

Tinkly SFX take us back into the

world of the storybook story.

Transition to SEGMENT 17 Drama.

 33

SEGMENT 17 – “PASSING ON THE BOOK” (DRAMA)

SET: Book Store (details TBC)

Lights come up on Book Store set.

MALACHI: Well, Sarah. How do you feel?

SARAH: I feel different. I feel hope… I feel loved… and I

want to help others.

MALACHI: Well, here’s your opportunity!

SARAH: Oh no, it’s Beth!

Sarah hides and Beth enters.

BETH: Where is Sarah? She HAS to be in here. I’ve

searched everywhere. Are you hiding him old man?

MALACHI: Well, uh…

SARAH: (Steps out boldly) Here I am.

BETH: There you are! I’ve been searching for you! You’re
in so much trouble.

SARAH: Beth, it’s okay. I’m not going to run anymore. I’m
no longer going to hide. It’s okay. I know you’re
scared.

BETH: What? I’m not scared!

SARAH: I’m scared too. I mean, I was. I was lonely. I had

lost hope. But I discovered something… I found
something – someone - that changed my life.

BETH: (Taken aback, silent) … What do you mean?

SARAH: I know what it’s like to face the darkness. We

didn’t end up in the foster home because things
were good. I know that you’re Mum couldn’t keep
you. I know you’re scared, I know you’re lonely.
This ‘tough’ Beth – it’s not you.

BETH: Whatever Sarah, you don’t know me-

SARAH: No! Listen! Beth… I lost everything. This bag… it’s

the only thing I have left from the fire that
changed everything. But I met someone who has
rescued me from the fire and healed my scars. He is
the light – the darkness had to flee – and now I’m
filled with hope…

Beth is impacted by Sarah’s words and is speechless.

SARAH: Here. (Sarah hands out the book)

 34

BETH: What’s this?

SARAH: It’s a Christmas present. I want you to meet the

one who changed my life.

BETH: Why would you give me a present? I’ve never

received a present before…

SARAH: Because we “need” a different story. This is now

your story.

Beth looks at the book. She opens it and sits down to read.
Sarah and Malachi come around her and they all look at the
book together. Sarah looks at the crowd and her facial
expression is showing how her life has changed since meeting
Jesus.

Lights down. Cast leave stage to crowd applause.

Transition to SEGMENT 18 Song.

 35

SEGMENT 18 – “BORN IS THE KING/IT’S CHRISTMAS” (SONG)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Staging TBA.

SONG - “BORN IS THE KING (IT’S CHRISTMAS)”

SINGER
LYRICS

Transition to SEGMENT 19 MC.

 36

SEGMENT 19 – MC (NEXT STEPS, DECISIONS)

SCENE/SET TBA.

Staging TBA.

THE END