Last night, Ian and I went to our local theatre to watch Freddy's school's Christmas production "Are We Nearly There Yet?" I have sat through countless school productions over my 25 years of parenting, some good, some not so good. But this one was undoubtedly one of the best I've ever seen!
The venue, which gave the children a proper stage and lighting, and the audience proper, comfy seating in tiered rows, helped with the enjoyment. Not having to be packed like sardines into a school hall, sat on those tiny, plastic seats was a huge bonus. The children seemed to relish performing like real actors and their enjoyment shone through.
My Freddy played one of the angels and looked adorable dressed in white with wings and a halo. He loves singing and dancing and was very excited about performing at a real theatre!
The children did so well with the singing, acting and dancing. The shepherds' scene was an unexpected moment of comedy gold. One particular little shepherd stole the show with his improvised comedic dance routine which culminated with him landing on his backside with legs akimbo in his shepherd's dress! Everyone was laughing and he played to his audience beautifully. A future comedian in the making!
Freddy and the angels were simply perfect as they sung and danced their way through their song. I was so proud that my little man was so completely uninhibited on stage and threw himself into the role without any fear. He is my little star and his dance moves were spot on! The 'faster than a rocket' action was particularly spectacular.
Yet again, the ethos of caring for one another came over loud and clear. There were several moments where the older kids took charge and assisted the little ones. Wings were adjusted, toy sheep and walking sticks were rescued from stage and overexcited chatter was gently hushed. It is this sense of responsibility and care from the older children to the younger ones, which really sets this school above any others I have come across. There are only three classes of children aged 4 to 11 at this little rural school, so it has an intimate, friendly and family-like atmosphere. It was this ethos that made us choose this school for our son and I am so happy with that decision. Watching this nativity play really showcased the children's love of their school and the relationship between the pupils.
I most definitely shed a tear or two, I laughed out loud and I grinned inanely at the cuteness of the little ones, so this year's play ticked all the boxes of what makes the perfect nativity play!
Well done to everyone who took part and thank you to Freddy's school for being so perfect for him!