Celebration of Christmas: Star of Wonder (Review)5520

How do we love the Star of Wonder? Let us count the ways: a 40-foot singing Christmas tree, silk aerial artists; a full orchestra and choir; a host of flying angels; pyrotechnics; confetti cannons; High School Musical-style performers; rappelling, break-dancing toy soldiers; Bing Crosby (via vintage video); a stunning laser light show; and exotic animals - including camels, a tiger, and an elephant, for crying out loud. This is not your grandmother's church Christmas play. That is, unless Granny attends Phoenix First Assembly.

Pastor Tommy Barnett and members of Phoenix First present their annual Celebration of Christmas productions as a gift to the community. The gift is well received, judging by the standing-room only crowds at recent performances. Families should plan to arrive well in advance to snag the free general admission seats (doors open one hour prior to performances, and lines start forming well before then). Parents can avoid the headache of waiting in line with young kids by purchasing reserved seats in advance online or in person at the church office.

A freewill offering is taken during the show; proceeds beyond the cost of production are used to feed, clothe, and provide shelter for the homeless through one of the church's many outreach programs.

Star of Wonder lasts approximately 90 minutes and is preceded by Dickens-style carolers and a warm-up show. There is no intermission, aside from a brief break during the offering, so it's a good idea to visit the restroom beforehand. Ushers wear black "Ask Me" shirts and can be found just about anywhere if you need directions.

It might be difficult to remember you are in a church during the truly spectacular production, which rivals any other holiday show in town. Star of Wonder, however, contains a focused evangelical message and a reminder of the reason for the season. The joyful reverence and majesty of the final Nativity scenes are not to be missed.