Length: 30–40 minutes

Cast: 8–12 actors (flexible)

Best for: Youth groups, mixed ages, church congregations

Set: Small stage with simple props and a lightweight “time machine”

Christmas Time Machine is a lively, heartwarming musical comedy perfect for churches seeking a fun, meaningful Christmas program that works even with a small stage and mixed-age cast. The story follows Joey Thompson, an imaginative and energetic student who builds a “time machine” for his school project. When he invites his best friend Riley to test it out, the machine unexpectedly sends them hurtling back in time to Bethlehem on the night Jesus is born.

In a series of short, engaging scenes, Joey and Riley meet Mary, Joseph, shepherds, angels, and Wise Men preparing their gifts. Surrounded by original music, simple choreography, and comedic moments—including Joey accidentally interrupting the Nativity because he thinks it’s a hologram—they witness the birth of Christ firsthand. Their adventure is funny, touching, and rich with opportunities for kids and teens to shine onstage.

After returning home, the two friends burst into church shouting “Merry Christmas!”, eager to share that Jesus is the true center of the season—not presents, not lights, not holiday rush, but God’s love coming close to us.

The script ends with an optional bonus wrap-up scene where the cast speaks directly to the audience, blending humor and devotional reflection. This allows churches to tailor the length of the program and creates a powerful moment of connection.

Why churches love this script:

• Flexible cast—expandable for larger groups

• Upbeat musical feel with room for songs, dances, or choir

• Simple staging and props

• Humor that captures kids’ attention while delivering a strong gospel message

• Works well for all ages and all stage sizes

• Deep yet accessible message: Jesus is the real reason for Christmas

Christmas Time Machine brings imagination, laughter, and worship together in a fresh way, helping children and families experience the Nativity story with wonder—and celebrate the Savior who stepped into our world.

Christmas Time Machine: A Short Musical Comedy

©2025 Godsverse.org. All rights reserved.

Length: ~30 minutes

Cast: 8–12 actors (flexible)

Best for: Youth groups, mixed ages, church congregations

Set: Small stage, simple props

Cast of Characters

• Joey Thompson – Mrs. Thompson’s oldest son. Smart, imaginative, a little dramatic. Proud inventor of the “time machine.”

• Riley – Joey’s friend from the neighborhood (can be boy or girl). Curious, funny, more cautious than Joey.

• Mrs. Thompson – Joey’s mom; loving, busy, and slightly overwhelmed by Christmas preparations.

• Narrator – Guides the story, speaks to the audience; can double as ensemble.

• Mary – Kind, calm, full of quiet wonder.

• Joseph – Gentle, protective, slightly nervous but trusting God.

• Angel 1 – Big personality, joyful, leads the angel songs.

• Angel 2 / Angel Ensemble – Additional angel(s), enthusiastic, backup singers.

• Shepherd 1 – Goofy, easily startled.

• Shepherd 2 – More grounded, but still funny.

• Wise Man 1 – Serious, slightly formal.

• Wise Man 2 – Practical, funny one-liners.

• Wise Man 3 – Excited, a bit scatterbrained.

Note: Roles can be combined or expanded. Extra kids can be Shepherds, Angels, or Bethlehem Crowd.

Setting & Props

Present Day Scene:

• Simple “living room” or church classroom setup:

• A table with cardboard, duct tape, boxes, and wires for the “time machine.”

• A few wrapped “Christmas” boxes.

• A chair or small sofa.

• The time machine can be:

• A decorated cardboard box with lights, tinfoil, and a big fake lever or button.

Bethlehem Scenes:

• One simple “stable” corner:

• Hay bales or brown cloth, a manger with a doll (baby Jesus).

• A star hanging above (paper, cardboard, or light).

• Another corner or front-of-stage:

• “Field” for shepherds (green cloth or nothing at all).

• Space for “road” where wise men walk.

Minimal props, big imagination.

SONG NOTES

This musical includes original short songs. They can be sung a cappella or with simple piano/guitar. Feel free to add instruments or repeat choruses as needed to extend length.