The production takes place at the church's Loop campus, located at 7401 Katy Freeway, Houston, and aims to illuminate the Christmas story through a heavenly lens.
“Every year, our Christmas production at Houston's First Baptist Church is called ‘The Story.' This year marks our fourth installment, with each production presenting a new chapter focused on the birth of Jesus, told from a unique perspective,” Gathering Pastor Jeff Bumgardner said. “This year's theme is 'The Story: Flight,' which showcases the Christmas narrative from a heavenly viewpoint—the angels' perspective—setting it apart from the typical human-centered biblical retelling.”
Incorporating elements that engage the audience visually and emotionally, the production includes relatable scenes, such as passengers on an airplane traveling home for Christmas, alongside the sacred narrative of Christ's birth. This blend of themes—the divine and the familiar—to create a dynamic atmosphere that resonates with a diverse audience.
In this unique storytelling approach, the music plays a crucial role in bridging these themes, elevating the emotional impact of the narrative.
“We create a festive atmosphere by combining original songs and familiar Christmas arrangements, with much of the music written in-house,” Bumgardner said. “Last year's production, 'The Story: Snow Globe,' was nominated for a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Musical of the Year because our talented musicians and vocalists bring a high level of artistry to the performance, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the audience.”
Fun for everyone
For children, the performance is both entertaining and educational, bringing the Christmas story to life through colorful visuals and relatable characters. This captivating experience makes it an ideal outing for families, as children connect with the meaning of Christmas in memorable ways.
Adults will also find deeper significance in the narrative. The heavenly perspective encourages reflection on the importance of Christ's birth and its relevance today. Familiar holiday music further enhances this experience, inviting audiences to engage with the timeless messages of hope and love that Christmas represents.
"We're incorporating modern elements this year, including an AI narrator who will guide us through the story. As the narrative progresses toward the birth of Jesus, you'll see the narrator evolve, revealing more humanistic characteristics,” Bumgardner said. “This creates a unique story within the story, offering something for everyone—from a Bethlehem perspective to a contemporary representation of what it means to hear the Christmas story today."
The church's Loop campus is equipped to handle large audiences, ensuring that every seat in the house offers a great view of the action. The atmosphere is filled with anticipation and excitement, drawing people in from the community and beyond.
Pre-show information and tickets
One of the highlights of this year's Christmas production is Wonderland, an interactive pre-show experience designed specifically for families. Wonderland opens an hour and a half before the main performance, and admission is included with tickets to "The Story: Flight"—there is no extra fee required.
Wonderland activities include:
- Arts and crafts
- Santa experience
- Mobile photo booth
- Cookie decorating
- Hot chocolate and coffee station
- Inflatable attractions
With its engaging activities and heartwarming performances, "The Story: Flight" is an ideal event for families looking to celebrate the season together.
To learn more information or purchase tickets, visit thefirstchristmas.org.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
