In my world, small though it may be, nothing says December like the Annual Traditional Kindergarten Christmas Pageant. This pre-program scene of kings, a star, shepherds, angels, sheep, innkeepers, Mary and Joseph...as seen above, took place recently at a private school in California. There were a few pre-program jitters:
The Innkeeper is hoping against hope that he will remember his line: "Now Joseph, he insisted that his wife have some place to stay." All the while Joseph himself, who has no lines, is totally relaxed and happy in the background.
Mary, however, has a heavy responsibility. Hold the baby and don't drop him. Mary has taken her directions seriously and will not be distracted.
The Star is a bit uncomfortable and encumbered, but content with his pageant role...especially since stars are seen, but not heard. The Kings are quite happy...they have crowns which, after the program, they will not want to give back.
The Angels are thrilled with their glitter, their sparkles, their hoops, and their feathery wings. They have been flitting around the auditorium with great enthusiasm.
The sheep, after glimpsing the angels, have immediately concluded (and quite correctly), that life is NOT fair.
Mary (every teacher's dream) has continued to hold tight to Baby Jesus. He's a bit uncomfortable, but secure.
"My Mom told me we get ice cream after the program...Chocolate, vanilla, AND strawberry...with sprinkles!"
The program has begun and is going quite well as the angels recite their lines. These angels, completely in character, know that, as messengers between heaven and earth, sturdy tennis shoes are a must.
Part recitation, part song (with sign language included), the program has reached its climax with "Joy to the World." The Innkeeper, who performed flawlessly, is uplifted by the atmosphere of it all.
And is now happy to pose for his very proud GG.
