PICTURES: Playbox nursery in Sudbury captures magic of Christmas with nativity play

Youngsters at a nursery in Sudbury captured the magic of Christmas with their own interpretation of a nativity play.

Staged in St John’s Methodist Church Hall, where The Playbox hosts its weekly sessions, children aged between two and four performed The Busy Builders to families and friends.

While a group of shepherds focused on constructing a secure fence to house their flock of sheep, youngsters recreated the birth of Jesus.

Administrator Heather Mansfield, who was responsible for creating all the colourful costumes, praised the children’s enthusiasm.

“They have been absolutely brilliant,” she said. “They love singing the songs. It has been a pleasure, rather than a chore; and they have had great fun doing it.”

Staff were impressed by the children, who appeared unfazed by the large audience.

“It can be quite daunting,” said Mrs Mansfield. “But they took part because they are very confident, which is great to see.”

Youngsters performed a combination of nursery rhymes and carols, with secretary Isabel Hebden acting as pianist.

Mrs Mansfield, who has worked at the nursery for 23 years, highlighted that the performance encouraged teamwork.

She added: “It’s nice that they have all worked together, and that’s why we have a big dress rehearsal; it all comes together at the end.”