The one-off play that's run for 55 years

Aldermaston's York Mystery

How about celebrating this Christmas with a visit to the renowned York Nativity Play in the beautiful Church of St Mary the Virgin, Aldermaston?

You can share the age-old story by joining the players who are all from the local community. They perform in sumptuous medieval costumes in shades of red, blue and gold, to an accompanying choir who sing from the bell tower of the church, the whole production is a synthesis of light and colour with the text of the play adapted from one of the great works of English literature, the York Mystery Cycle.'

The Aldermaston Nativity Play began in 1957. What a stir it caused. Village residents were asked to take to the boards and grapple with medieval poetry. Without any experience, the village doctor, a farmers, two teachers, a car mechanic and a potter among others took up the challenge, and it was a great success. The play was never intended to run for more one Christmas. Instead, it has been performed every year for 55 years. Generations of families have taken part and thousands have travelled to Aldermaston to see the play.

Music is central to the play. A choir sings from the bell tower under the direction of Peter Denny. They sit huddled together in the darkness, having hauled their way up the spiral staircase by means of a rope.

The play runs from Thurday, December to Sunday, December 11 (times vary) so please check before you book.

Tickets are free but they must be booked in advance. Send an sae to Val and Andy Hall, The Gables, Church Road, Aldermaston RG7 4LR or email aldermastonnativity@hotmail.co.uk