Faith

Portsmouth-based Christian drama group, Top Cat Theatre have given the best known Christmas story a new slant for their festive tour.

Melchior’s Magical Mystery Quest is set 2,000 years ago in Persia, where three wise men are puzzling over some ancient prophecies that suggest the imminent birth of a new Messiah in Judea.

Scientist Melchior, poet Balthazar and philospher Caspar see a mysterious star and are drawn to follow it across miles and miles of desert.

They completely forget to take their presents of gold, frankincense and myrrh with them so Melchior's loyal servants, Shamri and Kash-Kash have to follow with mischievous camel Desmond, who eats everything from maps to underwear.

The play is being performed in churches in and around Portsmouth between 5 December - 23 December.

The hour long play is suitable for children aged five and above.  Tickets are £4 for adults and £2.50 for children, venues and box office information can be found on the Top Cat Theatre's website.