Durham Market Place is to host a ‘live’ nativity play, which will feature real camels, a real donkey and a human baby. It will also include shepherds, the three kings, a Mary, a Joseph and angels (though this magazine can’t confirm if the angels will be genuine).
The re-enactment of the story of Christ’s birth will be staged by members of local churches and community groups, and will follow a script that will include lots of references to north east life.
Reverend Joanne Thorns, from St Nicholas’s Church, Market Place, said, “The Durham City nativity is a unique opportunity to witness our community coming together to help us be part of the Christmas story as it unfolds in a different, unusual setting in the heart of the city.”
“We are inviting everyone to join us in a busy town and follow the signs with the shepherds, angels and wise men to find a very special baby.”
A choir drawn from members of local churches, along with the Durham University Gospel Choir, will sing carols that members of the public are invited to join in. The play will be delivered from three different stages positioned around the Market Place.
The Three Kings will ride into the Market Place on camels and Mary and Joseph will enter accompanied by a donkey.
After the play, free hot chocolate will be given out in St Nicholas’s Church, where playgoers will have the chance to light a candle and say a prayer.
This is the second time the nativity play has been put on in Durham Market Place. It was also staged last year, an event that drew hundreds of spectators.
The play, which has been organised by St Nicholas’s and Durham Business Improvement District, will take place on Thursday, December 8th, beginning at 6 pm.
Durham Business Improvement District said, “Market Place will become a stage telling the greatest story ever told. Wrap up warm as this is an outdoor performance.”
