South Kent School is delighted to continue its cherished tradition with the annual Nativity Play, a heartwarming campus event that will take place on Tuesday, December 17th, at 7:30 PM in St. Michael’s Chapel. (*For anyone unable to attend, the event will also be live-streamed on the School’s YouTube channel*)
For nearly a century, this beloved play has been a central part of the South Kent holiday season, bringing the story of Jesus’ birth to life for students and their families. The tradition holds deep meaning, especially as the School, with its Episcopal foundation, embraces the power of prayer through its chapel services. Each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, students gather for chapel services, which serve to nourish their spirits and strengthen their resolve for the week ahead.
The Nativity Play is more than just a performance—it is a beautiful retelling of the Christmas story through the accounts of the Gospels of Luke and Matthew. According to The Reverend Father Klots, School Chaplain, “The Nativity Play uses scripture from the King James Version of the Bible–to recount the birth of Jesus. It also uses many of the great Christmas carols–ones that almost everyone knows like “O Come, All Ye Faithful”– to echo and proclaim that same story. The script that we use is the same one that was compiled in the late 1920s. I would say that it simply tells the whole story–from the first scene, which actually recounts a prophecy of the birth of John the Baptist to the final scene, the visitation of the three wise men (the three kings) to see the Baby Jesus in Bethlehem.”
“What makes this play so special is not just its heartfelt storytelling, but its ability to resonate deeply with the students,” says Head of School, Brian D. Sullivan. “While many traditions have evolved since South Kent’s founding in 1923, I see some as more than just customs — they are woven into the very fabric of our daily life. This is one tradition that stands out as uniquely South Kent, something we do once a year that truly defines us.” Adds Mr. Sullivan, “At Alumni Weekend, it’s not uncommon to hear stories about who played the kings in their Sixth Form year — these shared moments transcend time, linking us all as part of the South Kent legacy.”
“It’s the event that leaves a lasting imprint on all who experience it, creating memories that connect generations of graduates,” says The Reverend Klots. “For all who hold South Kent dear, especially at this sacred time of year, the Nativity Play is a special opportunity to witness the timeless story of Christ’s birth in the beautiful setting of our School chapel.
South Kent School invites all members of the campus community to join us for this special event, which will follow the School’s Formal Christmas Dinner at 5:30 PM. Come experience the spirit of the season in the heart of St. Michael’s Chapel, and share in this time of warmth, reflection, and joy with the South Kent community.
For members of the South Kent School community attending in person the Nativity Play will begin at 7:30 PM. If you are unable to be with us and still wish to watch, the event will be livestreamed on the School’s YouTube channel and will be available for view during the holiday break.
Written by Jaewon Kim ’27