LIHUE — “Birthday of a King” is not your ordinary nativity tale.
Same message, just a unique method of delivery.
“It’s just a fun, different way to look at the Christmas story,” said Victoria Franks, a minister with King’s Chapel. “And it still tells a message bringing hope and expectancy to people during a time a lot of people are depressed.”
For the third year, King’s Chapel is presenting the musical fantasy that includes a king, evil lords and a ballerina, among its many characters.
It is at 6:30 tonight and Sunday at Wilcox
Elementary School cafeteria. It is free, but donations are accepted.
Franks is both director and actor, playing the role of Miss Byrd, described as human representation of the Holy Spirit.
She described the musical as an allegory that tells the story of the birth of a king and savior from a fantasy perspective.
“It’s a little bit different,” she said.
Franks and husband, Pastor Steve Franks, who plays the king, lead the 90-minute production that includes a cast and crew of about 65 adults and children.
The Franks’ daughter Ariana plays the evil lord, while youngest daughter Mackenzie is a ballerina. Son Evan, home from college, is helping with the lights.
The prince is played by Ekolu Kelley.
Rehearsals began about six weeks ago to master the numerous songs and dances.
They wanted to bring back “Birthday of a King” one more time. It is described as encouraging and uplifting.
“It brings a new spark into their life,” Franks said.
The main show is preceded by a showcase of King’s Chapel ministries, including hula and choir performances.
The musical was written by Pastor Chris Davis, who runs King’s Chapel in Branson, Missouri.
The Franks have been organizing a Christmas program for the six years they’ve been at King’s Chapel.
They encourage involvement in the production, on or off stage.
“This is a great way for people to be able to express their faith,” Victoria Franks said.
The church will be breaking ground on a new building at its Hanamaulu site in January to replace its former dome home.
King’s Chapel is also hosting a polar express party for keiki on Friday, Dec. 22, at Hanapepe Recreation Center. It will include a movie, hot cocoa, popcorn and hot dogs.
The Franks said they have many outreaches because they want to be a giving church.
“Everything we try to do to permeate the community,” Victoria Franks said.
