THE HEREFORD NATIVITY 
Bringing the Christmas Story to Life

Wednesday 26 & Thursday 27 November 2025, 7.30 pm

Book tickets here

 

Following the outstanding success of The Hereford Passion in 2024, Hereford Cathedral is delighted to stage its next production, The Hereford Nativity on Wednesday 26 & Thursday 27 November.

The Hereford Nativity will be directed by the cathedral’s Chancellor, The Revd Canon James Pacey, and will retell the story of the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. Unlike other nativity plays, the story will carry a special focus on the relationship between Mary and Joseph and the real human struggles faced by people living in ancient Judea. Presented as a fully staged production within the stunning setting of the cathedral, The Hereford Nativity promises a fresh, dynamic, and deeply moving exploration of the origins of Christmas.

The production will also coincide with the launch of the cathedral’s Year of Storytelling which will see two more major productions directed by James Pacey and provide many opportunities for people to take part in activities with the cathedral over the coming year. As part of this commitment to engage local people in creative storytelling which brings faith and history to life, the nativity’s cast is entirely made up of individuals from across the Diocese of Hereford and the wider local community.

The Revd Canon Chancellor James Pacey said: “I cannot wait to bring this production to life in the cathedral nave this month. Whilst this is the nativity story we are all familiar with, it is told from a completely different perspective which will give people an opportunity to stop and reflect. Focusing on the people in the nativity, and the hardships that they faced, makes the story much more relatable and hopefully appealing to both Christians and non-Christians alike.”

The Very Revd Sarah Brown, Dean of Hereford, said: “It is an enormous privilege to be able to offer the community such a rich piece of theatre that tells the story of the nativity in a properly adult way. Everyone loves children’s nativities but perhaps the real impact of the events around the birth of Jesus in his own time and for us today is not the point of those beautiful but simplified performances. This is something altogether different, involving people from across the churches and I really look forward to seeing what James and his talented cast will make of it. I know that it will be spectacular.”

Performances will take place on Wednesday 26 and Thursday 27 November at 7.30 pm (doors open at 7 pm). Tickets are priced at £10 for adults and £6 for children, with a group discount available. Tickets can be purchased in advance via the Hereford Cathedral website, at the Ticket Desk, or by calling 01432 374 202. The production is suitable for audiences aged 10 and above. While thematically rich and emotionally powerful, it does not include distressing content. 

Hereford Cathedral gratefully acknowledges the generous support of The Friends of Hereford Cathedral for making this production possible. If you would like to find out more about the work of The Friends of Hereford Cathedral please click here.

 

Banner image by Caroline Potter