Jerome McDonough calls his 1-act The Nearest Star, a Christmas parable with music. Where—or what—is the spirit of Christmas? Three young girls (or young women) set out in search. Like the Three Wise Men, they follow a star. But this star leads to a Christmas tree lot. And every other path leads to more commercialism. Is the Christmas Spirit nothing but a money-making scheme? With the help of some fresh, singable songs—and an unexpected assist from Someone Else—the girls finally find what they're looking for.

The Nearest Star is an ensemble play and, therefore, most members of the ensemble will play multiple roles. The only performers who remain in the same roles throughout the show are the three young girls—Jody, Chris, and Cyndy. Others move in and out of their characters and in and out of the "Living Cyclorama" upstage of the action.

The original cast numbered 10 people and that is probably the minimum number of performers who can mount the play successfully. The maximum can be 20 to 30. The greater the number of people, the less the amount of rehearsal time needed, assuming that all cast members will make all rehearsals. Chorus members set and strike the bench and any hand props used in the show. When not involved in the action, Chorus members stand "on the Cyclorama," that is, forming a living wall behind the action, facing away from the audience. There is no set per se. Locations are suggested by the use of a bench, the star, the arrangement of the performer's bodies, and by dialogue.

Winter clothing is the norm for The Nearest Star. The three girls (who may be eight to ten years old or teen-agers portraying this age) wear winter shirts or blouses, jeans, and winter shoes. Once their search begins, they add coats. Chris also adds a stocking cap. Other cast members dress similarly, suggesting their various characters by simple accessories or props which they wear or carry as needed. These costume elements and prop items are neatly stored upstage of the Cyc on the floor when not in use.

Time, today; Place, here. Books include vocal score and guitar chords. Demo/Accompaniment Tape (with "Not Even A. Mouse") available from publisher. For all groups.

"Thanks for an entertaining, easy to stage play."—Theresa Catellier, St. Vincent De Paul School, Phoenix, Arizona.

Other McDonough Christmas plays: Carol* A Christmas, A Christmas Carol (1-act), It's Sad, So Sad When an Elf Goes Bad, O Little Town, Posadas (bilingual), Señor Scrooge (bilingual)