In Gerry Page and Ruth Kenward's Noisy Nativity, the Christmas story is told with gusto. The show opens with children playing percussion and clapping so loudly that their teachers come to quieten them down. ‘Why are you making all that noise?’ they ask. ‘Because Christmas is exciting!’ the children reply. Connor and Chloe are under the impression that Christmas is all about presents, but the teachers point them in the direction of the Nativity – and so begins a lively retelling of the story of Jesus’ birth.

Although the show is very simple, there is plenty for all to do, which keeps the children engaged. The script is very versatile, suiting almost any size of cast. There are just a handful of main parts, which can easily be shared out to suit larger groups – and if you have nursery age children, the part of the teachers could even be played by adults.

This lively show is sure to be a parent-pleaser.