For the past 22 years, Xavier has put on the Christmas Pageant. It tells the story of the birth of Jesus through song and dance.
The pageant features performances from advanced and performance dancers along with the honor and freshman choirs.
Although the pageant has the same concept each year, the nativity of the birth of Jesus, there is always something different. Whether it’s the music or dances, not every year is the same.
This year, there are a variety of roles such as shepherds, angels and Mary that are all played by students at Xavier.
Mary Anne Herding, dance teacher and chair of dance at XCP, has choreographed the pageant. The Xavier Advanced and Performance dance students also contribute to the choreography with their creativity, making each dance unique and beautiful.
“Each dance is religious and sacred,” Herding said. “They all go in-depth about the Catholic faith that is central at Xavier.”
Each year, the theater department helps make the sets for the pageant. They create the backdrop and props that are included in the pageant.
Teresa Corderman has been in charge of the stage sets along with stage craft classes each year. “I change every set each year,” Corderman stated. She puts in time and effort each year to ensure the visuals of the pageant are beautiful and complement the dancers and choirs.
Brittanie Hockins, Xavier’s choir director said, “Theater is the overarching theme of the pageant.” Theater is a major part of Xavier and is incorporated into the pageant through set designs and lighting.
Hockins has been preparing both choirs for months now.
This year the pageant will be performed for the student body on December 6 and is open to the public on December 8.
To witness the story of Jesus’ birth through song and dance, join the performers on December 8, 2024.
