AMBITIOUS plans for a Swindon community Nativity play in December will culminate in a dramatic, ambulatory performance moving through Old Town to recreate the events leading up to the birth of Jesus.

Initiated by Daphne Hardwick, curate of Christ Church, and to be directed by Anna Friend of Quirky Bird Theatre, the production needs a principle cast of between 15 and 20, and a supporting cast of between 50 and 60 people. Auditions will be held at Christ Church on September 9.

The production follows the successful Wroughton Passion Play, which Anna also directed. She said:

“We want anyone and everyone to audition. This will not be a twinkly, sanitised version of the nativity but an edgy, gritty version of the well known story.”

Anna is writing the script, in discussion with Daphne and using a range of different sources.

“You do not have to have a faith background to get involved,” Anna said. “We need a whole heap of people to be part of it.” As well as actors, the production needs plenty of volunteers to help out.

To find out more and to get involved, email thejourneyswindon@gmail.com.