The approach of Liverpool’s Year as European Capital of Culture will be heralded by a live BBC production of the nativity in the city’s streets at Christmas 2007. Liverpool Nativity will tell the story of the first Christmas through the music of Liverpool. Characters in the drama will perform familiar songs accompanied by a live orchestra. The hour long production will be broadcast live on BBC Three and will follow torch lit crowds through Liverpool’s streets towards the River Mersey. The performance will culminate with a nativity scene on the banks of the Mersey. Liverpool Nativity has been developed by the team behind the Manchester Passion which was broadcast live on BBC Three on Good Friday 2006. A magnificent spectacleBBC Commissioning Editor for Arts, Music and Religion Adam Kemp says the production will be an event to remember, “After the wonderful response to Manchester Passion, we’re excited to bring such an ambitious live event to the streets of Liverpool.  | | The Manchester Passion, Good Friday 2006 |
“People should expect a magnificent spectacle, a sing-along and above a genuinely moving experience. We’re hoping to give Merseyside it’s most memorable Christmas ever!” The Liverpool Nativity will be the springboard for Liverpool’s 2008 celebrations, Liverpool City Council Leader Warren Bradley says “We are delighted to be working with the BBC on what will undoubtedly be a unique experience for the people of Liverpool providing a fitting climax to the City's 800th anniversary year and the perfect curtain-raiser to European Capital of Culture 2008." | 
