This list of 10 Terrific Simple Musicals for Christmas was created and compiled for churches that would like to offer a special Christmas program, but need to keep things simple. With the following selections, you can rest assured that these musicals will be much easier to plan and perform–and can be done so with fewer singers and musicians!
The first 5 on this list are re-imagined and simplified versions of some of Discover Worship's most popular musicals. These "Musicals-Made-Simple" use the same structure and narration, but substitute songs that are much more easily performed by soloists, ensembles, and even your congregation! And as always, accompaniment tracks are available for all of these pieces.
In addition to the 5 simplified versions, we'll also spotlight 5 more Christmas musicals that are easily adaptable for a smaller team of vocalists and musicians.
A Christmas of Poetry & Song (simple)
Arranged by Various
Simplified for fewer singers, this adaptation features 5 original free-verse poems and Scripture readings interspersed with solo, duet, and simple choir versions of anthems and beloved Christmas carols. Invite your congregation to sing along! 37 minutes.
An Advent Service of Candles & Carols (simple)
Arranged by Various
Simplified for fewer singers, this adaptation features solo, duet, and 2-part versions of 7 familiar Christmas songs your congregation will recognize and sing along with. Includes responsive Scripture readings for weekly Advent candle lightings or for presentation as a 32-minute program.
Be Joyful All! (simple)
Arranged by Various
Simplified for fewer singers, this adaptation features four blended to light gospel songs scored for soloist and 3- or 4-part ensemble set between verses of Paul Lawrence Dunbar’s classic poem, “Christmas Carol.” Optional instrumental piano opener. 17 minutes in length.
Christ Has Come (simple)
Arranged by Various
Simplified for fewer singers, this adaptation features very accessible 2-, 3- and 4-part arrangements of new and familiar Christmas favorites punctuated by Scripture-based narration & prayers. Reverent, yet regal, it can be presented by a small choir or vocal ensemble. 6 songs/25 minutes.
Christmas, Night of Angels (simple)
Arranged by Various
Simplified for fewer singers, this adaptation is narrated by Joseph & Mary and tells the Christmas story through six angel visitations recorded in Scripture. 35 minutes/7 songs. Includes three 4-part arrangements (which can be performed by an ensemble) + 4 solos.
Watch the short preview video below and then explore the musicals that interest you by following the link beside each of the descriptions.
Come and Worship: A Contemporary Carol
Sing-Along (for Kids of Any Age!)
Arranged by Various
Although this unabashedly upbeat unison and 2-part Christmas musical with simple narration was originally envisioned for older kids and teens, your worship team can easily adapt this 9-song work to any contemporary worship setting.
Come Let Us Adore Him
Arranged by Various
Upbeat and contemporary, this fresh 9-song, 39-minute celebration re-imagines “How Great Our Joy,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “Angels We Have Heard on High” along with such modern favorites as “How Many Kings?” and “Let Us Be." Includes solos, duos, 3-part & SATB plus crisp narration for two.
Fall on Your Knees
Arranged by Various
This 45-minute contemporary Christmas worship service overflows with all-time Christmas favorites and new worship songs to unite your congregation and community in praise to the Savior. Requires competent soloists, vocal ensemble, and musicians (or augment with tracks).
God With Us
Arranged by Various
If you're looking to feature your worship team and band, this 6-song musical with narration will create a fresh Christmas praise service. These new and familiar favorites are arranged as worship songs with a modern folk feel.
Sing We Now of Christmas: A Festival of
Carols (w/ optional video tracks)
Arranged by Various
Ready for some fun? Consider doing this 30-minute video singalong with your vocal ensemble doing the more complicated parts and leading your congregation to join the singing at the appropriate times. 15 beloved carols beautifully arranged for traditional/blended choir. Original narration and scriptures culminate in an invitation.