GARDEN GROVE : High Times Enjoyed at Christmas Show

Ten-year-old Samuel Kitchens never thought he’d actually see angels flying above his head. But with a little help from his school and the Rev. Robert H. Schuller’s Crystal Cathedral, Samuel and hundreds of other elementary school children not only got the chance to see angels Thursday but flocks of sheep and goats too.

More than 50 schools from Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties were invited to Children’s Day at the cathedral and were treated to a free production of the 10th annual “Glory of Christmas” musical production based on the life of Jesus.

The holiday show features more than 200 performers, a menagerie and musical scores performed by a 70-piece orchestra.

“We provided this opportunity for children because we know many would not have a chance to see it otherwise,” said Sandy Boselo, production coordinator. “We understand that many people aren’t financially able to bring the entire family to a show and this is something that the children can enjoy while learning about what Christmas really means.” For the past eight years, schools from each of the participating districts have been asked by the cathedral to send letters expressing interest in the production. Cathedral officials then have chosen those that will attend.

The show unfolded Thursday all around the 2,500 audience members in the 13-story structure of glass and white steel trusses.

“The angels flying above us was really the best,” said Samuel, who attends school at home through the Vineyard Christian Fellowship. “They were flying so high and fast and they look so beautiful.”

Much to the children’s enjoyment, eight angels, dressed in flowing white gowns, soared as high as 90 feet and dropped as low 10 during the hourlong performance, with the help of sturdy harnesses and wires.

“I think it gives kids a clearer perspective on the birth of Jesus,” said Samuel’s mother, Glenda, of Garden Grove. “This gives them a visual account of what happened and they can use that to go along with the Bible when they read it.” But for 9-year-old Laurentia Budceia, who recently moved to the United States from Romania, seeing live animals was the highlight of the performance.

“I’ve never seen a donkey or horse before,” said Laurentia, a third grader. “I understood the story but the animals were big and playful. They were the best.”

“The Glory of Christmas,” began performances Nov. 30 and will continue with three shows a day until Dec. 30. The Crystal Cathedral is at 12141 Lewis St. in Garden Grove.

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