KINGS, camels and dancing snowflakes heralded the advent of Christmas as tiny tots took to the stage for their first Yuletide performance.
More than 70 pupils donned animal costumes, angel wings and shepherds robes for a traditional nativity play with a twist at Eldon Grove Academy, Hartlepool.
The students, aged four and five, spent two weeks rehearsing their production which told the tale of Whoops a Daisy Angel, a clumsy but kind-hearted angel who is given the job of guiding the shepherds and the kings to the stable in Bethlehem where Jesus was born.
Assistant head teacher Claire Martindale said: “All the children have been really excited about performing in front of parents, grandparents, family and friends, some of them for the first time.
“As well as rehearsing the play itself they have all had to learn six new songs which they sang beautifully.
“As part of our curriculum we cover many festivals and celebrations of all religions, from all over the world, and it is lovely that we can enjoy a Christian celebration with a traditional nativity and show the children the real meaning of Christmas and why we exchange gifts on December 25.”
Taking on the lead roles of Mary and Joseph were pupils Ava Smith, four, and Samuel Bowsfield, four, with Niamh Brown, four, playing the donkey.
The title role of Whoops a Daisy Angel was played, over the two performances, by Sophia Weegram, four, and Gracie Dees, four.
“All the effort that has been put in by staff and by parents, who helped to make the amazing costumes, has been incredible,” added Mrs Martindale.
“Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the performance which has really marked the start of Christmas.”
