Albany Nativity to be performed Dec. 10, 11

By Donnie A. Lucas

After a four-year absence, the “Albany Nativity” will be presented for two performances on Dec. 10 and 11.

The show depicts the birth of Christ and was written by Albany playwright Robert Nail, who also wrote and directed the Fort Griffin Fandangle.

Normally produced on even years, it has been four years since the production was presented due to the ­COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am so glad that we are able to present ‘The Nativity’ again after its absence,” director Lorna Ayers said. “It is absolutely my favorite play to direct, and I think there are a lot of new people in Albany who aren’t aware that we have a Christmas play. I hope they will come.”

Ayers said that while the cast is set for the production, she can use help.

“Anyone who wants to volunteer to help is certainly welcome,” she said. “I think it is the most beautifully written script that Robert Nail ever produced.”

Rehearsals will start on Tuesday, Nov. 1 in the reception room at the Aztec Theater, with certain scenes meeting primarily on Tuesdays and Thursday evenings for three weeks.

Rehearsals will change to Monday on Nov. 21, when practice will move to the Aztec’s stage. Ayers said that she will email schedules to anyone who needs one.

“We will move into the auditorium the weekend of Thanksgiving with the sets,” Ayers said. “We are really on a tight schedule, so we need everyone to come to rehearsals when their scene is scheduled.”

The play has traditionally been held every other year, but there have been longer gaps for various reasons.

There is a narrator that leads the audience through the story, as well as both children’s and adult choirs.

Performances are set for 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11.