Christmas Play in the Park

On Sunday evening, December 11, 2016, Peggy and I attended the musical production of "En Espera del Mesias" (In Hope of the Messiah) at the amphi-theater in the middle of the park near our apartment.  Attending with us were several other senior missionary couples:  Aitkens and Rasbands.  Although we couldn't understand much of the Spanish spoken and sung, we were impressed and pleasantly surprised by the quality and professionalism of the production.

We thoroughly enjoyed this play. The stage set was simple in portraying the typical side street of Bethlehem.  The script, taken from the scripture, was doctrinally based and also creative.  The lighting and music and the professional actors/singers were very talented and exceptionally good.  We walked away very spiritually fed and giving thanks that we attended.  It was a beautiful performance.

Angels and  the Creation of the World

The story began with the angel Gabriel and a dozen angelic dancers circling the stage, holding a variety of globes representing many planets and the creation of the world.

Gabriel and Mary

Then, next came the Old Testament prophecy of the Messiah from Moses and on through the entire New Testament nativity story.   The angel Gabriel the only real stretch doctrinally with his large wings. was very entertaining with His powerful and stunning tenor voice and striking blue and white costume,

The Narrator, a beautiful lady dressed in long, flowing white dress with a glittering star on a wire extending from her shoulders to above her head, represented the New Star in the heavens.

Mary Telling Joseph That She is With Child 

Mary and Joseph, the high soprano and tenor, provided the highlight of the show, with their tender performances of the nativity scene.  A few brief light-hearted comedic moments were given by the eclectic group of shepherds as they made their way through the audience to the holy city to see the Christ child.   Live lambs and goats brought realism.

The three wise men--large and husky--delivered powerful performances during their individual solos and as a trio with their strong operetic bass and baritone voices.  The finale scene--the tribute to the Christ-child and his birth--brought the perfect cresendo to a well-produced, beautifully delivered Christmas story.

The Three Wise Men

At this Christmas season, we found ourselves in a different place trying to feel the Spirit of Christmas here in the warm Caribbean.  For us, we found a moment of the Spirit tonight.  We are thankful to these talented and beutiful Dominican people for what have done to celebrate the birth and life of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Our hearts are full of love and gratitute for His birth, life, example, atoning sacrifice and His resurrection for each of us.  We know He is the Son of God and Savior of the World! Randy

Randy and Peggy with Gary and Michelle Aitken