Join our Christmas Eve Nativity for the whole community!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is The Nativity for?
The Nativity is a simple Christmas Eve Service for all ages. Join us as we retell the story of the first Christmas with 45 minutes of singing and storytelling, with the help of our donkey, Aubrey. The 3pm and 4:30pm services are identical.
Can I take part in The Nativity?
Yes! The Nativity is for the whole community. You or your child are welcome to come dressed up as your favourite Nativity character and join in the relevant parts or join the band to play the Christmas Carols, performing in our beautiful Victorian Church.
My child has only just started playing an instrument. Are they welcome to join the band?
Yes! As long as they can read very simple sheet music, they are very welcome to join the band. The most important thing is they have fun!
I’ve recently retired and haven’t touched my instrument for over 10 years! Can I join?
Definitely! Now is a good time to dig out your instrument and hone some of those rusty skills before Christmas Eve.
Is there a rehearsal before Christmas Eve?
No, there is no rehearsal for either The Nativity or the Band, but we are happy to send you the sheet music in advance if you’d like to practice ahead of the big day!
My family or friends are playing in the band. Do I need to book tickets for The Nativity?
Yes please 🙂 We have limited seating so it’s helpful if we can keep an eye on numbers.
Who is conducting?
We are delighted that Julia Desbruslais (MBE) and Mickey Posner have offered to lead this initiative this Christmas. You might have got to know Julia when she was Executive Director of London Mozart Players. More recently Julia and Mickey played at our PlayTime! teddy bears’ picnic when we welcomed a Very Special Bear from Peru! 🙂
Do I need to play at both the 3pm and 4:30pm performance?
Yes, it’s helpful if you can commit to the 1:30pm rehearsal and both performances. They’ll be lots of fun, plenty of refreshments, and the afternoon will end at 5:30pm 🙂
How much does it cost to join the band or book tickets for The Nativity?
The Nativity is completely free and everyone is welcome, but tickets must be booked in advance.
We don’t come to Church – are we welcome to join the band for The Nativity?
Definitely! This is a fun event for the whole community on Christmas Eve: whatever your faith or belief, you are very welcome here.
Do you have sheet music for my instrument?
If you’re not sure whether or not we have sheet music for your instrument, please email Julia: [email protected]
I have additional needs. Am I welcome?
At St John’s, we believe everyone has a place in our community. Please speak to Mthr Rachael if you or your child would like to talk about accessibility at The Nativity: [email protected]
St John the Evangelist
Everyone is made in the image of God.
Everyone deserves to be safe.