Live Crib 2024

Live Crib — this time-honoured event has become a staple of Mayfield since its inception in 1959. Celebrating its 65th anniversary, the Live Crib has successfully woven itself into the tapestry of holiday traditions, enchanting young and old alike with its charm and warmth. This year’s festivities featured five performances over four memorable nights, including the unforgettable Old Cornelian night on Tuesday 17th December, which attracted a remarkable audience of 245!

The Live Crib began in 1959 designed to bring the community together in celebration of the Christmas season. As we celebrated this significant milestone, it was a moment to reflect on the rich history of the event. Each year, the Live Crib offers a unique blend of storytelling, live performances, and community engagement, drawing inspiration from the origins of the nativity story.

This year's Live Crib presented five performances. The School and village communities came together to witness the unfolding of the nativity story, bringing forth a sense of unity and joy. The feedback is always overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in such a time-honoured tradition.

The highlight as always is the dedicated Old Cornelian night. The festive spirit was palpable, enhanced by a delightful afternoon tea. Many families decided to make it a collective outing, fostering connections and reminiscences as they relived cherished memories from their years at Mayfield and previous Live Crib events.

Everyone’s support also plays a vital role, with donations to the retiring collection being shared between the Cardinal Hume Centre and the Sandra Jones Centre. The Cardinal Hume Centre supports those facing poverty and the threat of homelessness while the Sandra Jones Centre is a safe home for orphans as well as abandoned babies and children. These tow very deserving charities will now be sharing a very impressive total of just over £2000!

The 65th anniversary of the Live Crib was not merely a celebration of the past but a promise to continue this legacy for many more generations. It is a testament to the unwavering spirit of community, reminding us that no matter how much we grow and change, the essence of gathering to share joy, love, and connection remains timeless.

As we savour the memories created in December and look forward to the next edition of Live Crib, we honour those who dreamt of such a gathering 65 years ago. Together, we commit to keeping the flame of tradition alive, ensuring that Live Crib remains a cherished part of our community's festive celebrations for the years to come.