A Night in Bethlehem: A Narrated Nativity

A Night in Bethlehem 

A Narrated Nativity is a beautifully simple 15-minute Christmas play designed especially for young children ages 1–5 and small church groups. With one narrator guiding the entire performance, the story of Jesus’ birth unfolds clearly and gently while little actors silently reenact each moment. This easy, no-stress format keeps the message accurate, the movements simple, and the children confident.

Perfect for preschools, early childhood ministries, and churches with limited rehearsal time, the script uses minimal dialogue and relies on narration, soft music, and visual storytelling. Children portray Mary and Joseph, angels, shepherds, sheep, and wise men, all surrounding a warm, traditional manger scene. The play is flexible, allowing anywhere from 8 to 15 children (or more) to participate using only basic costumes and props.

Why Families Love It:

• Easy to understand for little ones

• Calm, Scripture-inspired narration

• Gentle movement, no memorization

• Beautiful moments for photos and recording

• A peaceful, reverent retelling of the Nativity

Why Leaders Love It:

• Extremely simple to stage

• Works with small or large groups

• One narrator carries the whole play

• Requires very little rehearsal

• Affordable, minimal props and costumes

Ideal For:

• Small churches

• Preschool Christmas programs

• Family or candlelight services

• Early childhood ministries

• Last-minute Christmas presentations

Length: 15 minutes

Cast: 8–15 children + 1 narrator

Style: Quiet, reverent, flexible, and child-friendly

A Night in Bethlehem: A Narrated Nativity

A Simple Christmas Play for Little Ones

Cast of Characters (8–15 children)

You can adjust the number of children easily.

• NARRATOR – older child, youth, or adult (main speaking role)

• MARY – young girl, gentle and calm

• JOSEPH – young boy, kind and protective

• ANGEL OF THE LORD – one main angel (can add more “backup” angels)

• SHEPHERDS – 2–5 children

• SHEEP – any extra children (or stuffed animals)

• WISE MEN (optional) – 1–3 children with crowns

• STAR HOLDER – child holding a large star on a stick (or star backdrop)

Extra little ones can be added as more sheep, angels, or townspeople.