Yes, it’s only September, but you all know that planning a Christmas play takes a lot of work. So we figured it was the perfect time to bring up some very important FAQs related to Christmas plays that you could keep in mind over the next few months.
Coordinating and producing a Christian Christmas play can be a monumental task! Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you through the tough spots.
1. How do I create Christmas pageant costumes on a limited budget?
Basic nativity scene costumes can be made from scratch using donated items. Make a detailed list of what you need and distribute it to the congregation. Ask for items such as old sheets and fabric, rope, ribbon, spray paint, tinsel garland, face paint, and safety pins. If you don’t have it–improvise! Angel wings can be fastened out of cardboard, shepherd’s head pieces from dish towels”¦ Use your imagination and don’t hesitate to ask for what you don’t have.
2. How can I put on a Christmas play with a very young cast?
There are a few things to keep in mind if you are producing a play with a young group of kids. Use a script that is short and has very few lines to be memorized. Rely on narrators to read directly from the script while the little ones act out the story. Recruit as many volunteers as possible to assist with the rehearsal and show. Have Sunday school teachers practice the show songs with the children every week and encourage the audience to sing along to help the kids with unfamiliar verses. But above all, be patient!
3. How do I limit distractions during the show?
Make sure all of the costumes are well fitting and comfortable. An itchy king is sure to draw attention away from the act. Limit the props carried by young children. Shepherd’s staffs quickly become batons and bats. Before the show begins, politely ask the parents and audience to refrain from sneaking down the aisle for photos and videos. Offer an opportunity for a group photo session at the close of the play.
4. How do I recruit volunteers to assist with a Christmas pageant?
Just ask! Put out the word well before the pageant planning begins. Post “help needed” signs on information boards and in the weekly bulletin. Enlist Sunday school teachers and assistants. They will know the children well and will be able to assist with any behavioral problems that may arise. If you are still short on helpers, ask your pastor who in the congregation you may be able to approach directly. He/she will likely have an idea of who may be more apt to pitch in or who may have extra time.
5. How can I include shy or hesitant kids in the Christmas play?
Not every child likes to be the center of attention. Fortunately, there are many other “off-stage” roles that will need to be filled. Set design, costume creation, lighting, sound, and program printing will all need to be completed. Create a new and unique role if a child doesn’t seem to fit any of the traditional roles.
6. I’ve just been asked to take over the Christmas Pageant; how can I pull it off in a very short time frame?
Use a script that only requires one rehearsal. With holiday schedules busy, it will be difficult to get all of the children to more than one. Minimize the need for memorized lines by utilizing narrators and solo acts. Substitute in widely known Christmas songs, such as “Silent Night” and “The First Noel,” instead of more obscure songs. Recruit as many volunteers as possible and divvy up tasks that can be done at home, before the rehearsal, like costume and set creation.
7. My Christmas play script calls for a piano solo, but I don’t have a cast member to fill it. What should I do?
Don’t be afraid to alter your script. Your cast will have a multitude of amazing and possibly unique talents. Maybe you have a tap dancing solo or a tuba player instead. Try to alternate talent solos every year so everyone had their time to shine.
8. How do I handle a difficult parent while producing a Christmas pageant?
Always use tact and retain your composure. Set boundaries and expectations from the very beginning. If you find yourself in a situation with a difficult parent, it’s probably not the first time there have been issues with that particular person. Avoid talking to other parents about it; this can be misconstrued as gossip. Speak privately with a pastor for advice.
Now that you’ve read these very important FAQs, are you ready to jump on the task of planning your Christmas pageant or play?
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