Monday was a busy day at Wesley as most of the elementary school and staff were involved with the Christmas play in one form or another. After lunch, many of the elementary teachers loaded costumes, props and equipment into their cars to transport to our venue, Toronto Christian Community Church. Within half an hour, two busloads of students – members of the cast and most of the dance troupe – arrived for a run through of the play. Up to that moment, everyone had only practiced in our Wesley gym. The church sanctuary was much bigger and had a different layout. Students also had to practice wearing and using the microphones.
After one run through, everything looked good. There were only some minor things to work on. At 3:00 PM, the Grade 1-4 dancers arrived in the last bus. After some quick orientation to the new arrivals, the cast and dance troupe went through the play a second time, the last time before the actual performance.
Next came dinner, costume changes and the arrival of the choir.
Finally, at 7:00 PM, it was SHOW TIME!!!
After a short opening by our emcees, the show burst into an energetic performance about an acting company that received incorrect costumes for their Christmas play.
Instead of shepherd rods and cloaks, they received pirate costumes. Instead of crowns and camels for the wisemen, they discovered cowboy outfits.
Instead of halos and wings for the angels, there were pompoms for cheerleaders. There were also superheroes!
Despite the unconventional costumes, the company still ended up communicating the message of Christmas.
“After all, if God can use a donkey to speak to Balaam and a burning bush to speak to Moses… he can surely use cowboys, pirates, and cheerleaders to tell his love story. We learn that we never know what our great big God will do to reach someone with His love.” – An Out of the Box Christmas
This was done in a very dramatic and touching number called “A Christmas Love Song.” As the cast, choir and various soloist sang the beautiful ballad, select dancers performed a ballet while Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus looked on. Interspersed were readings from the book of Luke about the birth of Jesus and the hope that the Messiah brings to the world.
After the moving scene, a comedic one followed, involving a misunderstanding with “Broadway producers”. This set up the final number called “A Night to Remember” which involved all 190 members of the cast, dancers and choir. What an appropriate way to end the tremendous performance!
Congratulations to the performers as well as the amazing teachers and staff who spent countless hours organizing, practicing and preparing for the show! We are also very thankful to all the parents that have supported and encouraged their children. Special mention should also be given to the volunteers who braved the cold night to help direct traffic and parking. Lastly, but most importantly, we also give thanks to our LORD. He is a God of details. Through His love and compassion, He gave us the gift of Jesus – the reason for Christmas. May His peace and love be with you this season and always.