The Bethlehem News Network (Readers’ Theatre Version)” is a humorous, heartfelt Christmas skit performed like a live newsroom broadcast—only the “breaking news” is coming from Bethlehem on the night Jesus is born. With each reader holding a script, the cast presents report after report: shepherd interviews, Bethlehem crowd updates, confused astronomers, panicked scribes, and a wise man trying—and failing—to explain cosmic navigation.

Through comedy, surprising interviews, and a newsroom anchor who keeps losing their place, the skit leads its audience into the wonder of the first Christmas. Even in the chaos of Bethlehem, God’s message remains clear: a Savior has been born for all people.

Theme

Christmas – Jesus brings light, truth, and salvation to all people

Characters 

(6–10 actors)

•  Narrator – Guides transitions and spiritual meaning.

• Anchor Jordan – Main news anchor; easily loses their place in the script.

• Reporter Samira – Field reporter interviewing shepherds.

• Reporter Cyrus – Analyst reporting on Bethlehem crowd chaos.

• Reporter Liora – Science correspondent interviewing the wise men.

• Wise Man Belteshazzar – Tries to explain astronomy with limited success.

• Wise Man Kasiph – Earnest but confused; adds humor.

• Shepherd Amos – An Excited shepherd who saw the angels.

• Shepherd Eliab – Nervous shepherd still recovering from fear.

• Scribe Micah – Delivers breaking news from Herod’s palace.

(Optional extras: Additional shepherds, townspeople, junior reporters.)

When

A humorous blend of Biblical times with a modern newsroom format.

Props & Costumes

• Clipboards

• Stools or chairs

• Handheld microphones

• Robes for shepherds and wise men

Why

The truth proclaimed on the first Christmas night echoes through time. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” — Luke 2:11

This skit helps audiences rediscover that the message is still breaking news for every heart.

How

One side of the stage is the news studio with stools, clipboards, and microphones.
Opposite side is the Bethlehem field/street area, easily represented with simple lighting changes.

Time

15 minutes