Manx Gateway Drama Group is to perform its Christmas Nativity at St Andrew’s Church, Douglas, on Sunday at 6.30pm.
With Christmas fast approaching, final rehearsals have been taking place for the nativity production by the group.
The group, founded in 2008, regularly perform a nativity at a different church as part of their Christmas celebrations.
The group, run by volunteers, works with performers with learning difficulties, with the objective to assist them in improving communication, interaction and self-confidence skills.
Each performer takes an active role in the group’s productions, and this year all readings, speaking parts and carol solos will be by group members – something that the performers have worked hard to achieve in recent years.
John Riley and the group Musicale will also perform as an integral part of this year’s nativity.
All of the Manx Gateway Drama productions are conceived, written, staged and directed by the volunteers, and the amazing costumes are designed and made by a dedicated and talented wardrobe team.
This year’s nativity production is directed by Sandie Newson.
Rehearsals of this traditional nativity service started in October and have gone very well.
In recent years these productions have become a memorable part of the island’s arts calendar, with many regular supporters in the audience alongside friends, family and honoured guests .
‘At this season it is especially important to share joy and love with as many people as possible so why not come along to St Andrew’s on Sunday the 15th to join with us in our own special way of celebrating Christmas,’ said Carol Glover, chairman of the Manx Gateway Drama Group.
The cast includes Hannah Cowell (narrator), Elan Karran (assistant narrator), Katie Toohey (Angel Gabriel), Amy Towler (Mary), Paul Clucas (Joseph), Amanda Jones (Star Angel), Jack Leece (Herod), Maria Kaighin (priest), Geoffrey Briscoe (Innkeeper), Danielle Milligan (His Wife), Julie Hinstridge (Angel Peace), Fiona Powley (Angel Goodwill), Julia Karran (1st Shepherd), Laura Oram (2nd Shepherd), Sonia Plastead (3rd Shepherd), Barry Faragher (4th Shepherd), James Quilliam (5th Shepherd), Rebecca Maller (Gold King), Suzanne Woods (Frankincense King), Lian Milne (Myrrh King ) and Anne Simpson (Herald Angel).