The Birmingham age-herald., 1920-12-05
ny MRS. B. F. WILKINSON

We are apt to forget that the drama of the world originated in the rites oi the church and the religious observ. ances of the people among whom they Sxisted.
 The old Miracle and Mystery plays roand their mothering in the early and medieval church. So bringing the orama back into the church is but put nng it where it belongs. Surely there IS no more beautiful and appropriate way to commemorate the event fol which our Christmas stands than the presentation of miracle play or Christmas Eve. It will make this Christmas different from the other \ AChristmases past, and one that will never be forgotten.
 The story of the nativity is impress sive to the child's mind or the minds of older people for that matter whether given in play form or in g series of tableaux or pictures. illus trated with appropriate music. Cele- brations of this nature are adaptable Tor use in the home, institution or church school. They may be given very simply or elaborately as desired There are many beautiful versions oi the old English Christmas plays ot the Coventry and Chester cycles that are adaptable for use. In giving these It is suggested that, above everything the old English atmosphere be pre- served. This may be done by the use of many greens, lighted candles and carol singing, as Is still the custom ir "Merrie, Merrie England"
 In regard to the music. if possible enlist the services of . quartet of ladies' voices. Besides this. have a piano violin and cello. harp adds very much and may be used very ad- yantageously in a scenic way, par ticularly where the quartet sings as an angel choir. In some instances music may be used throughout ths play.
 The number of holiday plays is .eg- : ion, all breathing the spirit of Christ mas. It Is not necessary they have ABiblica1 subjects. They should, though in every instance be of strong ethical value and significance. The following suggestions and necessary informa- ton as to where the material may be procured may serve to help directors who wish to celebrate Christmas in this way.
 The House and Garden Magazine of December, 1919, contains one of the most beautiful of these plays. Full directions for production, drawings, il- lustrations, suggestive for curtain, cos tufueSs ctC. \FuDllSneQ Dy COnQo, NdSt & Co.,. 1s w. Forty-fourth street, New York.)
 The November issue of this years Drama contains two excellent plays of this description, srhe Children and Evangelists," and "A Christmas Mys- tery Play" Address 59 East Van Bu- ren street, Chicaso)
 Why the Chimes Rang" by Eliza beth McFadden, is also recommended (Published by Samuel French.)
 Owing to the lateness of the date and in order that no time be wasted, the suggestion is made that you telegraph your order to any of these publishers perhaps doing so through your local dealer.
 In this way any of the above men ticned may be secured within two days .or in ample time, for presentation on kChristmas Eve.
 Why not try celebration of this la ture this year? The memory of the charm of such an event will finger long in the minds of both children and grown-ups.
 The Jewish race has given us some of the greatest stage geniuses we