The True Meaning of Christmas at the Denton State Supported Living Center

A longstanding Holiday tradition in DFW is the annual Christmas Pageant presented by residents at the Denton State Supported Living Center and performed with Local 72-147 musicians through co-sponsorship of the Music Performance Trust Fund. Opened in 1960 and designed as a community for individuals with intellectual and developmental difficulties, this pageant is an essential part in this community’s holiday celebrations.

Originally written by the center’s music therapist Joe Pinson, residents from the Living Center come together to dramatize the Christmas story. As the DSSLC staff attests, “Our Christmas pageant is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Our residents are featured in all the roles ranging from angels to the innkeeper to the Wise Men.” Performing in costume, some enact the roles of Mary and Joseph, while others carry out the choreography of shepherds, kings, wise men (and a few camels!). Also forming a choir and a host of angels, the residents bring the chapel alive with the carols of the season. There is literally a part for everyone. With the total participation of the community’s residents, the pageant is as much an educational event for them as it is a celebration.

Ann McMillan, who has performed the program now for many years, has remarked, “I absolutely love doing this pageant. I wouldn’t miss it for anything as long as it keeps going and they will have me! It is really special.”

Local 72-147 is pleased to support this event through the funding of Music Performance Trust Fund, whose mission includes contributing to the public knowledge and appreciation of music, as well as making music a part of every child’s life experience.