Description

Away In A Manger is an old Christmas carol, favorite among all Christmas Christian songs.

The message is presented by the words of the song AS WELL AS the artistic movement of dancer(s) on stage who present the meaning of the words in a visual manner.
This song was once believed to be the work of Martin Luther, the source is now believed unknown. But the importance and relevance of this song is beyond doubt as a tender, gentle and compelling song, nominally for children’s worship, yet as most adults will tell, this is lovingly remembered. It is one of the few Christmas carols which is appropriate year-round.
NOTE: this form of dance/drama/interpretive movement is referred to by publishers and actors as “Human Video” which is only to indicate “Mime To Music.” Human Video is a written script indicating the suggested choreography to be presented in concert with the song.
There is no “video” in Human Video scripts, other than what is presented through the expressions, movement and projection of the dancers on stage.

Cast:

• As few or as many dancers as are available/desired.

Bible Reference:    Luke 2

Set:      bare

Lighting:        standard

  Sound:     wireless mics if available

Song: 

• Away In A Manger sung or recorded music played

SFX: none

Costumes:

• as desired, chosen not to limit dance movement

Props:      none

Special Instructions:

• Some publishers include a video of what some director or actor has characterized, however in the DramaShare Method we strongly believe amateurs do better self-characterizing than memorizing someone elses characterization. If the customer wants “memory-based Mime To Music” it will not be found here.
• Each line of the song is examined and explained, movements and interpretations suggested. This song/carol holds special significance as a very tender, gentle, yet compelling song for children, yet adults will tell how it is fondly remembered.
• If using actors of different ages/sizes have smallest actors in the center and larger actors spread outward, smallest to largest, (taller actors on extreme left and right sides). Smallest actors will have smallest movement of hands and face, tallest actors will have the most grand, exaggerated, sweeping gestures. This creates a kind of “fanning” movement with all movement and activity focused toward the center of the stage. Ensure sufficient room is allowed around each actor.
• Keys: (where gaze and direction of dancer is aimed, further explanations in script)
  VCS = Visual Center Spots (mid-range level)
  LVCS = Lower Visual Center Spot (such as looking at “manger”)
  UVCS + Upper Visual Center Spot (looking up in the sky)

  Time:   4

Sample of script:

NOTE: instructions are for words on the following line.

All start with hands folded in front of chest, smiling.
As song begins, faces and hands move to UVCS, then smoothly down to LVCS on “manger”

AWAY IN A MANGER

Focus hands and gaze on LVCS, slight frown, look back and forth at each other as though sharing in a secret.

NO CRIB FOR A BED

Soft, gentle smiles, focus on LVCS

THE LITTLE LORD JESUS

Hand and gaze focus stays on LVCS but hands come closer together as though cupping, holding a baby.

LAY DOWN HIS SWEET HEAD

Hands and gaze focus on UVCS, eyes widen in wonder, smiles expand

THE STARS IN THE BRIGHT SKY

Gracefully hands and gaze move from UVCS to LCVS

LOOK DOWN WHERE HE LAY

Hands folded at chest level, wide smiles, look back and forth at each other.

THE LITTLE LORD JESUS

Gently bring centerstage index finger to lips as a command for silence.

ASLEEP ON THE HAY.

Concern on faces, look to offstage location