The Tom Stoppard Theatre was filled with the spirit of Christmas this week, when Pocklington Pre-Prep pupils performed their Nativity.

Fifty-nine children from five local nurseries and Pre-Schools joined Prep School pupils to watch the dress rehearsal, followed by two performances for Pocklington Prep School families.

The children brought the traditional nativity story to life, portraying all the key elements beautifully through song, rhyme and narration.  Mrs Cobb, Head of Pre-Prep, had written the rhyming script and the four narrators pulled the story together.

There were stunning solos and duets from the Inn Keepers and Kings and Pre School pupils were cast as shining stars. Mrs Steel, Year 1 teacher, directed from the front as children sang their songs eloquently which Mrs Dance, Head of Music, had practised with the children.

Mrs Walton,  Year 2 teacher, said: “The pupils worked hard in their classes learning their lines with expression and fine tuning their acting skills before bringing the whole nativity together ready for the performances. Thank you to all the parents for their support with costumes and helping children learn their lines.”

Mr Wright, Head of Pocklington Prep School said: “It is always a pleasure to welcome parents and grandparents to the Tom Stoppard Theatre to start our Christmas focus. This year we were joined by visitors from several nurseries, including Little Green Rascals, Old Macdonald's, St John's Pre-School, Tinies and Wold's Pre-school. Teachers worked tirelessly with the children, creating a unique role for each child and making sure they knew their lines and songs.

He continued: “To see so many young children acting and singing so beautifully as they told the original story of Christmas was magical. They brought this story to life and reminded us of the true meaning of Christmas. Shepherds gave lambs, the Wise Men gave gold, frankincense and myrrh. What can we give? As one narrator said, "We give ourselves". I wish you all a very happy Christmas.”