Shepherds Arise 2024

We were delighted to to be able to stage 'Shepherds Arise' on 2 December, 2023. This new folk opera was written and produced by Jessica Dalton and James Naylor, the same creative team who brought us Noye's Fludde and Love Abounds.

A new folk opera

We have come for to sing of a baby,

Born under a star as a sign.

He is feared by the rich and the ruler,

He is love, He is glory divine.

'Shepherds Arise' is a celebration of the Nativity story, retold in song, dance and poetry. It follows Mary on her journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, meeting angels, shepherds and wise men along the way. At the heart of the story is the baby in the manger, a gift from God to draw all humankind into love, justice, and peace, building a Kingdom where no one hungers or thirsts and all are invited to live life in all its fullness. 

The show involved numerous folks from our congregation and community, and several other local churches. Members of the PMC Singers were heavily involved. There were two performances (afternoon and evening), which were both well attended.

For full details of the show's creative team and the music included in the show, see here.

Photographs from the production are reproduced below.