Donkey and camel star in special live Nativity
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In hopes of sharing the Christmas message with as many people as possible, Bob and Virginia Baird are spearheading the staging of several unique live Nativity scenes in Salt Lake City.
The Bairds of the West Jordan Utah Bingham Creek Stake have taken the traditional idea of a living Nativity and turned it into a multiple-act production featuring original music and a staff of more than 100 volunteers.
"I wanted to make it a musical that really brought people a little closer to the whole spirit of Christmas," Sister Baird said. "It focuses on the Savior and His birth, the purposes of His birth."
The production, titled "Echoes of Christmas," includes six live Nativity scenes replete with singing actors who depict Mary, Joseph, shepherds, wise men and other staples of the Christmas story. Live animals include sheep, a camel, goats and a donkey.
"I have such a love for the Savior and what He's done for me that I've committed to share His message," Sister Baird said. "The most important thing is, if we can let other people know what His true message is, and that they can feel His love and know how important they are and feel the joy that comes from following the example He sets, then that brings us joy."
For the Bairds, it was important for "Echoes of Christmas" to appeal not only to the sensibilities of Church members, but to men and women of other Christian faiths.
"It's not just LDS," said Sister Baird. "We've addressed this in a non-denominational structure so that all Christian faiths can enjoy it and be touched by it and bring them closer to the Savior. I believe that all faiths need to walk together on the common ground that we have to preserve our freedom to worship the way we want to."
"Echoes of Christmas" is showing from 7 to 9 p.m. nightly, except Sunday, thru Dec. 23 at Liberty Park, located at 900 South 600 East in Salt Lake City. The event is free and lasts approximately 40 minutes — about half of which is spent walking from one scene to the next. For more information, visit echoesofchristmas.com
Jared Page contributed to this article.
