Mansfield Students to Perform in New Testament School's 'The Light Before Christmas'

Tonight students from will shed some light on the story of Christmas in a musical called, “The Light Before Christmas.”

In this musical by Dave Clark and Jayme Thompson, Beaker and his fellow classmates enjoy the last day of school before Christmas vacation with a party in science class. As they decorate the classroom and trim the tree, a few lessons from their teacher help the kids begin to understand the full story of the birth of Jesus and why Christmas is celebrated.

“Every year I look for Christmas programs that tell the Christmas story and I also look for ones that have upbeat music that kids like,” said musical director Susan Ferris. “We do a lot of choreography and dance moves. It’s important to me that they have a really good time with it as well.”

Approximately 60 students from Norton, Attleboro, Taunton, Norfolk have worked on this musical since the last week of September.

Cast members include David Hernandez of Brockton (Beaker), Shanarah Bargan of Norton (Savannah), Nicholas Shaw of Attleboro (Austin), Benjamin Babalola of Taunton (Todd), Caris Brown of Norton (Julie), Nicole Pladsen of Taunton (Anna) and Sam DeAguiar of Easton (Mr. Cutler). Behind the scenes are Aissa Burt of Attleboro (lighting), Ernany Pires of Mansfield (staging/sound), Nicholas Dubay of Raynham (staging/sound) and Teddy Ferris (sound). Sixth grade teacher Rebecca Lawrence is the drama coach.

“That’s a new thing for us, to train them to use the sound system as well,” Ferris said, adding that they will have a backup.

A silent auction will also be available until Friday for two decorated Christmas trees decorated by staff. Money will go to the charity, A Women’s Concern, a pregnancy resource center. Anyhow Cards will also be sold, which include gift certificates for grocery stores, gas, Dunkin Donuts, Walmart and more. The school receives a certain percentage back from each card sold.

New Testament Christian School students in grades one through six will feature “Light Before Christmas” tonight, 7 p.m. in the auditorium. The church nursery will be open in the rear of the auditorium. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for children and $10 for families. Proceeds from the show support music programs at the school.