A Nativity performance staged by a Cambridgeshire farm’s zoo staff and animals drew the community together to raise funds for a local church.
The event took place at Johnsons of Old Hurst in Cambridgeshire, where Andy Johnson, a fourth-generation farmer known for keeping crocodiles on the farm north of St Ives, organized the production with the aim of reminding people of Christmas’s true meaning amid the season’s excess.
In the play, Kat Choppin, a zookeeper who is five months pregnant, took on the role of Joseph so she could guide and manage the donkey featured in the Nativity scene. Lucy Leeder played Mary, riding the donkey to prevent it from bolting and potentially toppling Joseph. The Angel Gabriel was hoisted about 6 meters (20 feet) into the air using a telehandler operated by Johnson himself, who also served as part of the cast.
Canon Fred Kilner, rural Dean of St Peter’s Church in Old Hurst, expressed his delight at receiving nearly £2,000 from the event, noting that the funds would help keep the church building open for the community.
About 400 people attended the single performance, which also included the Somersham Town Band weaving Christmas carols into the Nativity narrative. Johnsons of Old Hurst has previously diversified its offerings by hosting traveling circuses and Christmas markets, among other events.
Johnson mentioned that the day’s success encourages him to consider a repeat Nativity performance next year. Kilner, who is supporting the church ministry while a new vicar is being appointed, thanked Andy Johnson for his generosity and community spirit.
What do you think about creative Christmas fundraisers like this one? Does mixing animals and live performances add meaning for you, or would you prefer more traditional takes on the Nativity? Share your thoughts in the comments.
