VOICES

If you ask different people, “What is Christmas for you?”, many would say that Christmas is the season of joy and love, celebrating together the wonder and magic it brings to our lives. It is a beloved time filled with cherished traditions, festive decorations, and the warmth of loved ones. Each year, as this holiday comes, it brings a sense of peace and hope as people come together to give gifts, share meals, and create lasting memories. But beyond the festivities, Christmas holds deeper meanings for many of us - a time to reflect on faith, beliefs, and past memories, and opportunities to spread kindness and extend a helping hand to others, especially those facing challenges in life. Whether it’s the joy of seeing a child’s face light up with excitement as the place becomes merrier or the solace of reconnecting with loved ones, Christmas touches the hearts of many in unique and meaningful ways. This is the story of Keys School Manila’s 19th annual Christmas program: Christmas Unwrapped, Our Merry Anthology!

After many months, stretching weeks, and sleepless nights of the community, Maybank Performing Arts Theatre in Bonifacio Global City warmly welcomed and hosted this year’s Christmas program. Children, teachers, and staff alike arrived early at the venue to finish preparations and rehearsals before the doors opened to parents eager to see their kids on stage. Excited buzzing and cheerful chatter could be heard and seen throughout its hallways and backstage. For some students, this wasn’t their first rodeo and they were ready to face their audience once more on stage! But for many younger kids, they might have said this once, twice, or probably ten times, “Teacher, I think my heart’s gonna burst!” As their bodies filled with a mixture of emotions, ranging from nervousness to happiness, they tried to shake it off with goofy antics like playing and sharing their Christmas plans with each other backstage!

And then, as the clock struck two in the afternoon, shuffling feet and hushed voices could be heard near the stage as it dimmed, signaling the start of the program. As the stage was set, the main stars of the show started to appear. Students from Pre-K to Grade 12, gathered in their colorful attire and Christmas costumes, started singing the community song “Hark the Herald!” with both smiles and solemnity, their eyes shining with glee as they saw their loved ones in the audience. And thus, the 2-hour program started, unwrapping the gift of heart-warming stories presented by each grade level.

Seeing the best in every situation, accepting and loving one’s own uniqueness, reconciling with friends, and teamwork were some of the themes presented by the students through their acting, singing, and dancing of their chosen songs - clearly highlighting their understanding of the story they wished to tell!

As the young ones of Kinder open the performances with their poem, everyone is hooked and enchanted to know more on what kind of gifts this year’s program will bring!

“Like all of you, you don’t look the same but that’s what makes you special!” As they sing True Colors and Just the Way You Are, Grade 2 sends the message of the importance of loving yourself, just the way you are!

Grade 11 sending lots of their love to the audience! Indeed, Christmas is the season of love, joy, and hope!

As sweet and beautiful as the flowers they hold, Grade 12 promises to bloom and continue to grow in the future as they cherish the past memories they have made together in Keys.

As the last present under the Christmas tree lit up, the stage dimmed, and a soft voice could be heard, “Your light shines brighter than any tree. Oh, what joy that you bring to me…” A gentle piano tune started as the students gathered singing once more on stage and near the audience, with a song that felt like the warmest of hugs this season, “Oh, What Joy!”, composed by Teacher Snow Toledo. As their voices echoed through the auditorium, parents and the community couldn’t help but be teary-eyed at the sight. Many hearts definitely grew more than three sizes at that moment. The hall erupted into cheers and congratulations at the success of this year’s Christmas Program! And, what joy did these kids truly bring to the entire community of Keys!

Keys students sing their hearts out with the community song, “Oh, What Joy!” to convey the message of what Christmas truly means to them.

“When we’re gathered around a tree, telling stories of many Christmas Eves

 And you know, it’s where you’re meant to be

Oh, what joy does it bring!” 

Like each year, the entire Keys community is grateful for the families, faculty, and staff for always being present and giving their support to the kids and keeping this beloved tradition alive year after year. We hope that through these stories we share, you carry with you the warmth and happiness and the essence of what Christmas means to  a lot - a time of love, togetherness, and unforgettable memories. Here's to many more celebrations that bring light and joy to all.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Blog by: Teacher Yen Gonzales