The Powerful Story of Christmas Brought to Life for Everyone

It was 90 degrees with not a single cloud in sight. The desert heat scorched the sand beneath the feet of the cast and crew, making it perhaps the hottest filming day yet. Once everything was in place, a loud “ACTION!” was exclaimed. Then one by one, the three kings and their royal entourages entered the main gate of Bethlehem. Some rode in on camels, while others walked with great prestige, dressed in ensembles of fine detail from head to toe.

Prince Khalfani and Princess Jamilia were among those representing the African entourage. Entering on foot, they walked through the gate with a certain vibrancy that captured the eye of the camera. Jalen Dixon from Hollywood, California, played the role of the African prince, and Adrienne Springs from San Diego played the part of the African princess.

“I have seen the Nativity story many times. But I think what has stuck out to me in this process was the diversity and the attention to detail,” says Dixon.

“I have seen the Nativity story many times. But I think what has stuck out to me in this process was the diversity and the attention to detail,” says Dixon. “There was a lot of detail and thought put into every aspect of the film. Everything was cohesive, even in the little things.”

The costumes for Dixon and Springs, like the rest of the cast, were designed under the direction of costume designer, Denitsa Bliznakova. The details of their wardrobe were carefully sewn with custom designs including animal prints. Each pattern was aligned to coordinate the actor’s attire with the culture they represented and to compliment the jewelry of the camel’s elaborate saddle wear.

Every department had a significant role to fill in the film. Executive producer and director, Paul Joiner, had the vision to see every race and culture portrayed positively on set. With six nations represented in the script, fulfilling the roles of both background extras and principal actors, the age-old Christmas pageant story was brought to life in an enticing new way.

“I love that Paul emphasized the diversity in the cast because that’s something I hadn’t seen before in the Nativity story. To have people be able to watch the film and maybe see themselves in it is such a beautiful message,” says Springs.

To have people be able to watch the film and maybe see themselves in it is such a beautiful message,” says Springs.

Perhaps the mainstream idea of the Wise Men was that they traveled alone and arrived at the same time to see baby Jesus at the foot of the manger. However, scholars and historians have discovered that they were astrologers and kings from faraway kingdoms who studied to understand their world by reading the constellations. Their travels took them perhaps two years to complete by the time they reached the young Messiah.

The magnitude and brightness of the star in the night sky captured the attention of the kings for two years. Hauling their families, servants, animals, guards, and gifts across the terrain was a sacrifice for a great reward they did not yet know.

Why the Nativity? truly exemplifies the complexities and beauty of God's people while still honoring the Creator who remains full of promise and wonder. The entourages represented in the story reflect the dimensions of many nations worldwide.

“I think [this story] is such a beautiful example about how God's message is for everyone, and that God's love is for everyone,” says Springs. “Our differences and diversity are beautiful, because no matter where you're from or what you look like, you can find yourself in Christianity. I hope people can see this movie, find themselves in it, and somehow feel as much love as we felt on set.”