Aras Chronain’s spiritual Live Crib will boast live animals and actors

By Mary Dennehy

A LIFE-sized crib is currently being constructed, the old fashioned way, without a nail or drill in sight, for a unique Christmas experience to be staged in Clondalkin this month.

An Beithil í n Beo, the Live Crib, is running in the Áras Chrónáin Irish cultural centre in Clondalkin on Saturday and Sunday, December 17 and 18, with shows being staged on the hour, each hour, between 2pm and 6pm both days.

The free event, which boasts Dublin’s only living crib, promises to be an “uplifting, entertaining and spiritual” experience, which will boast live animals, actors and lots of Christmas spirit – with the experience choreographed to a specially collated musical sound track.

The creation of the production is in itself a reflection of the true meaning of Christmas, with all aspects of the community coming together to stage the two-day event.

The construction of the life-size stable is being undertaken by Muintir Chrónáin and the local community while the cast and crew are all members of the Clondalkin Youth Theatre and Aisteoiri Chronáin – with support from Clondalkin Chamber of Commerce, Clondalkin Credit Union, Newlands Garden Centre, South Dublin County Council and Foras na Gaeilge.

The crib has also been devised by ex Ros na Run star, Brendan Murray.

Brian Ó Gáibhín who is producing the show, said: An Beithilín Beo will enthral, entertain and recapture the wonderful Christmas spirit in everyone from 3yr to 93yr in this unique community presentation.”

Admission is free however, donations are welcome to help ensure the continuation of this magical, community project each year.

Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and mince pies will be served.

Áras Chrónáin is based on Watery Lane, off Orchard Road, in Clondalkin.

For further information visit Áras Chrónáin’s Facebook page or call 4574847.