PRIMARY pupils sprinkled some Christmas animal magic as all creatures great and small brought a traditional nativity to life.
Cockerels, donkeys, owls, cats, dogs, cows, pigs, sheep, mice and camels joined kings, angels, shepherds and stars as a commotion in a Bethlehem stable told the tale of a baby Born in a Barn.
More than 200 pupils from Years 1, 2, and 3, at Eldon Grove Academy, Hartlepool, took part in the grand scale nativity, which gave every student their moment to shine on stage.
Assistant head teacher Sharon Stephenson, who directed the play, said: “All 205 children taking part have a dancing, singing or speaking part which has been very ambitious with such a large cast.
“We have been rehearsing for around six weeks and with eight songs to learn all the pupils have worked really well and come together as a team to put on a spectacular show.
“Even though the story is told from the animals’ point of view, it is still very much a traditional nativity and really helps bring home the true meaning of Christmas.”
Lead roles were played by seven-year old Isaac Ainsley, as the cockerel, Albert Brown, seven, taking the part of the owl, Marshall Vaughn, seven, as the donkey, Honey Farman, seven, as the cat, and James Casey, six, as the dog.
“Performing in front of parents, carers, family and friends is one of the main highlights of the year for our pupils,” added Mrs Stephenson.
“The children have really grown in confidence and it has been a great way to start the countdown to Christmas.”