Christmas stories come and go, but Logos Theatre’s original musical Silent Star gives the Nativity a unique spin, set in an orphanage in Victorian London that would give Dickens a run for his money. Youngsters range from little adorable tots to teen ruffian bullies. They are under the care of Mr. and Mrs. Finwick, who stay on the verge of bankruptcy and struggle to maintain the facility for orphans who would otherwise starve in the harsh London streets. The Finwick proprietors, nicely rendered by Abigail Pierce and Stephen Len White, aren’t warm and fuzzy; they would sell a child to the highest adoptive bidder if they could, but they’re better than the mean streets. The stakes are high, the needs are deep, a creditor licks his chops to get his cut, and children yearn to be cared for and loved. Or at least have shelter, threadbare clothes, and be somewhat fed. On top of all that, it’s Christmas Eve. Little William, played with spunk by Benjamin Maciejack, reminiscent of a vulnerable Tiny Tim, makes a wish on a “silent star” to experience the wonder of the birth of the Christ Child, and the miracles cascade from there.
What makes this production unique is the fascinating second act, where four orphans find themselves in ancient Bethlehem, fulfilling William’s wish to witness the Nativity. Lighting and projections make the walls look like ancient brick, stars sparkle overhead, straw is matted across the structures, and large desert palm trees replace the street lamps. Costumes transition from tattered woolen dresses and knickers to robes and tunics. There’s even a phalanx of Roman soldiers who roam the streets with heavy headgear and sword sheaths ready to smack down anyone who disrespects the law, the ruler, or the Roman way. Allison James maintains her tender, caring demeanor whether as Josie, the housekeeper in the orphanage, or as helpful villager Joanna in Bethlehem. Adolescent Ralph is played winningly by Sam Singleton, with tremendous vocals, and starts off resentful and angry at his parents, who abandoned him. His song about “waiting” relays his frustration with seeking solace that never comes. In an interesting twist, Ralph brings his anger to the young upstarts who want to overthrow the Roman oppressors in Bethlehem, but he starts to transition in the presence of shepherds who witness cosmic messages of peace. We watch as he slowly pivots toward acceptance and contentment while in the presence of the Holy Family in the stable, and finally feels the power of loving forgiveness as he holds the swaddled newborn in his arms.
As in other touring productions of Logos Theatre, a component of the Academy of the Arts based in Taylors, South Carolina, the designs and production values are superb. The set evokes grimy, gritty streets, with street lamps and cots rolled out as the lights dim for bed. Writer/director Nicole Chavers Stratton is truly gifted in wrangling over 25 youngsters scrambling on stage with choreography by Gracie Gould and Nicole Stratton that keeps the movement fresh and fun.
Silent Star is presented by the Academy of Arts’ Logos Theatre, which is celebrating its 20th year. Also being celebrated is the show’s original composer, Academy of Arts founder Dr. Nicky Chavers, who died in 2022. Artistic Director Nicole Chavers Stratton — Chavers’ daughter — and her husband, Executive Director Noah Stratton, who is in the show, continue the strong tradition. As does Olivia Singleton, director of music, who was mentored by the founder. The touring production is one of several presented at the Museum of the Bible and includes adaptations of three of C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia novels, as well as John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress.
The focus of Museum of the Bible is spelled out in the title, so no spoiler alert here. Same with the crystal-clear premise of the Academy of Arts, whose mission is to make the Bible come alive. The production company’s 20th anniversary adds to the excitement of the Gospel and the message. Be prepared for a hard Christian sell.
The Academy’s purpose is God-focused, so the program and messages are packed with entreaties to sponsor the disadvantaged and victims of poverty worldwide. The entreaties are intense, with photos and pleas of the needy throughout the program, an introduction to the mission before the show begins, and video of a recipient’s personal experience before the second half begins. It may be a bit much for an average theatergoer. If you can withstand the barrage, like sitting through a sales pitch at a resort, the show is a great time, and judging from the grins of delight from audience members at the end, worth every minute.
PLogos Theatre’s Prince Caspian returns to the Museum of the Bible from March 6 to April 25, 2027. Looks like a must-see.
Running Time: Two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
Silent Star plays through December 6, 2026, presented by The Academy of Arts Logos Theatre, performing at the World Stage Theater on the fifth and sixth floors of the Museum of the Bible, 400 4th Street SW, Washington, DC. Tickets ($59–$85) are available online, at the Museum, by emailing customerservice@mBible.org, or by calling (866) 430-MOTB. Performances are Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday at 2:00 p.m and 7:00 p.m. (There will not be performances on November 25 and 26. There will only be a 7:00 p.m. performance on November 27.)
The soundtrack for this Logos Theatre original Christmas musical, Silent Star, is available for purchase here.
Silent Star
Original Composer: Dr. Nicky Chavers
Writer & Director: Nicole Chavers Stratton
Director of Music: Olivia Singleton
CAST
Sam Singleton, Rachel Sorgius, Megan King, Benjamin Maciejack, Blakeley Bosworth, Stephen Len White, Abigail Pierce, Colten Wilson, Allison James, Noah Stratton, Olivia Singleton, youth ensemble
PRODUCTION TEAM
Sound Design: Olivia Singleton, Nicole Stratton
Set Design: Jesse Gould
Lighting Design: Sam Singleton
Graphic Design: Liz Preston, Jeremiah Gould
Costume Design: Rachel Maciejack, Sylvia Jackson, Lydia Miller, Sean Basto, Alice Johnson
Prop Design: Kayla Goodfellow, Kristen Goodfellow
Makeup and Hair Design: Rachel Sorgius, Amelia Guy
Choreography: Gracie Gould, Nicole Chavers Stratton
