From top: Parishioners re-enact scenes from the Bible during the 31st annual A Drive Through the Christmas Story at Sayre Woods Bible Church in Old Bridge on Nov. 27. Mark Scott portrays a centurion. Kenectti Unachukuv, left, and Dan Unachukuv pose as The Three Wise Men. PHOTOS BY SCOTT FRIEDMAN Residents are encouraged to take “A Drive Through the Christmas Story” this holiday season.
The live life-sized outdoor scene displays, held on the grounds of the Sayre Woods Bible Church on Route 9 in Old Bridge, celebrates 31 years this year.
RoxAnne Tauriello, originator and director of the live outdoor display, said the drive through is unique because people can see the story in the comfort of their own vehicles.
With CD players in hand, story goers travel through 10 life-sized Bible scene displays that include live costumed characters as well as animals, enjoying holiday music along the way.
“We have about 700 people in two shifts who volunteer their time from giving out CD players to bringing the characters in the displays to life,” Tauriello said.
She said storygoers are welcome to take a behind-the-scenes look after they go through the story. Tauriello, who has a background in show business, said she heard about a Christmas story display in California and wanted to replicate a similar display in the area.
After two years of writing a script and narration, the first production of the display was held in 1984.
Pastor Angelo Palma said the annual tradition is a true testament to how well received the live scene display has been to their community.
“A Drive Through the Christmas Story” is free of charge.
It was presented Thanksgiving weekend and will continue Dec. 4, 5 and 6, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday and from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the grounds of Sayre Woods Bible Church, 2290 Route 9 south, Old Bridge.
For more information, visit www.sayrewoods.org.