Nativity on city streets

Organisers behind plans to retell the traditional Christmas story on the streets of Lichfield for the first time this festive period have attracted initial support.

And the Lichfield Mysteries company – which is behind the ambitious scheme – has pledged to continue raising awareness of the work it does in the community.

The company recently staged a public meeting to gauge interest in the performance, to take place on December 16, and attracted in excess of 20 people.

And chairman Polly Dixon has no doubt interest in the production will gather momentum over the coming months.

Many people have already pledged their commitment to the event, and three rehearsal dates have being arranged.

The nativity will be a lead-up to the next full Mysteries cycle in May 2009.

The Mysteries involves the production of 26 short plays, and has taken place every three years since 1994.

For the nativity, performers will march through the city's streets to Market Square, with a number of narrators telling the story.

It starts at 2pm and will include music and carol singing.

"To attract more than 20 people for a first meeting was not bad," said Ms Dixon. "And I am sure we are going to pick up more people.

"In the past when we have had the Mysteries, everyone has enjoyed them and done a lot of work, and then we get this lull because they are every three years."

In recent months the Mysteries has been involved in a treasure hunt, the annual St George's Court event, the Lichfield Greenhill Bower Festival and the Medieval Market to maintain their profile.

"We are determined people will remember us this time," she said.

The nativity will be directed by David Titley. He is actor and director in the Mysteries cycles, as well as the annual Shakespeare in the Park event.