BBC’s Nativity

Just when John Humphrys – religion sceptic and BBC Radio 4’s Today programme presenter – thought it was safe to leave the building, it turns out that a full dramatisation of the Nativity is to take place on his doorstep. The Wintershall Nativity play is to be performed away from its base on the Wintershall Estate, near Guildford and staged in the new piazza outside Broadcasting House in central London. For over 20 years, the Wintershall Players have performed their Nativity plays to tens of thousands of people at its home in the Surrey hills. The play has become well known for its cast of more than 70, including musicians and a choir and the use of real sheep and donkeys.

The London performance, on 19 December, will begin on the piazza outside Broadcasting House before travelling into the adjoining All Souls Church, in Langham Place.

The creator of the Wintershall plays, Peter Hutley, said that he wanted to bring the story of Jesus’ birth to London for people to see and be reminded about the real reason for Christmas. The company is comprised of experienced volunteer actors from London and the south-east. Three years ago, the Wintershall Players started performing the Passion on Good Friday in Trafalgar Square and it has since become an annual event.