Stable on the Strand
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Stable on the Strand is an annual nativity play in Townsville, Queensland.[1][2] It has been described as "part installation, part fun fair and part theatrical performance".[3]
The play is staged from 18 to 22 December on The Strand in Townsville. The festivities also include a mock Bethlehem with actors playing soldier, shepherds and the Holy Family The event attracts up to 40,000 visitors a year.[4]
History[]
The Stable was created in the Mount Louisa youth centre in 1999 by Jay Goodwin and Anne Harley, and was attended by 120 people on the opening night. In 2002, it moved to the Strand and acquired its current name.[5] The original baby Jesus was played by Lachlan Crossan.[6]
2020 During the Covid pandemic Stable on the Stand changed to incorporate 'stations' around Townsville that people would drive past. This was also helped by the creation of the event specific Star Chase app created by DakTech. This app showcased the locations of the Stable on the Strand 'station' displays and local light displays for people to create their own driving tours of the attractions.
2021 Stable on the Strand relocated to Riverway to explore the opportunity a different location provides when reaching their audience.
The story[]
The play is an interactive re-creation of the traditional Christmas story, S It depends on up to 1000 volunteers per year.[7] In 2002, it was awarded the honour of Townsville's Event of the Year.
Features[]
- The Stable Village - vendors and actors in costume
- Live At The Strand - music and other entertainment
- Hospitality Areas - food and beverages
References[]
- ^ Macdonald, Emily (18 December 2012). "Stable on the Strand set for 'marry' Christmas". Townsville Bulletin. Retrieved 3 April 2013.
- ^ "Stable on the Strand takes Christmas back to basics again this Year". Townsville News Online. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 3 April 2013.
- ^ Fernbach, Nathalie (23 December 2010). "Journey into Bethlehem". ABC (Australia). Retrieved 3 April 2013.
- ^ "Stable on the Strand seeking Volunteers for 2011". MySuburbanNews.com.au. Retrieved 3 April 2013.
- ^ Anne, Harley (2 December 2012). "Letter to the Congregation" (doc). Church News & Notes - Vol 51 No. 45. Mount Louisa House of Praise. Archived from the original on 3 February 2014. Retrieved 14 November 2013.
- ^ Fernbach, Nathalie; Calderwood, Kathleen (22 December 2015). "Very first Stable on The Strand baby still supports Townsville event 17 years on". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Archived from the original on 13 February 2016. Retrieved 10 October 2018.
- ^ Kellner, Lydia (8 December 2012). "Big Stable expected but volunteers needed". Townsville Bulletin. Retrieved 3 April 2013.
External links[]
Coordinates: 19°14′45″S 146°48′40″E / 19.24583°S 146.81111°E
- Tourist attractions in Queensland
- Townsville
- Events in Queensland
- Recurring events established in 1999
- 1999 establishments in Australia
- Christmas events and celebrations