They Saw Him First
Two Christmas Plays For Young People
Susan Sundwall and Gary Koutnik

Looking for fresh holiday material that's fun to perform and will make your young people excited about being in the Christmas program? This set offers two imaginative presentations that are great for youth groups and Sunday school programs.

Bartholomew, The Clueless Shepherd tells the touching story of a shepherd boy who initially fails to notice the amazing things happening around him in Bethlehem. But with his father's guidance, Bartholomew gradually becomes aware of the miracle of Christmas and responds to God's eternal love. This charming play blends the wonder of the nativity story, a young boy's ambition, and a gentle dose of humor into a winning presentation that can be easily adapted for use by groups of any size -- lines are easy to memorize, and there are clear instructions for cast movement, scenery, and prop placement. An original song is included; performance time is approximately 25 minutes.

The Animals' Christmas Pageant recounts the events in the manger from the point of view of the animals who were there -- and do they have personalities with attitude! Perfect for use with middle school or junior high youth, this play has six speaking roles along with several non-speaking roles. Performance time is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Susan Sundwall is an author of children's picture books and freelance writer whose work has appeared in such publications as Guideposts for Kids and Wee Ones. She is an active member of St. Luke's Lutheran Church in Valatie, New York, where she has served as a Sunday school teacher and superintendent, council president, and choir member. Susan and her family own and operate a computer store in Valatie.

Gary Koutnik has been a teacher and school psychologist, and is presently the director of special education for the Oneonta City School District in Oneonta, New York. He is an active member of First Presbyterian Church in Worcester, New York, where he serves as an elder and works with the youth group.