The annual Christmas pageant performed by students from St. Patrick’s Academy, Bay Ridge, featured two full-length shows, each of which captured the spirit of the season.

First up, the eighth graders performed “Jingle Bell Jukebox,” a play that featured musical interludes from the entire school. The play centers around Santa and Mrs. Claus as they open a soda pop shoppe and share the Christmas spirit with customers.When one family enters the shoppe thinking their holiday is ruined, Santa returns to his old form and reminds them of the magic of the holiday season.

As part of the play, fourth graders performed “Frosty Hand Jive,” sixth graders sang “Jingle Bells Rock” and seventh graders performed “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”

A highlight of the show involved the academy’s youngest students singing “Must Be Santa” and “Here Comes Santa Claus.”

The Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students decked out in festive outfits and hats had the audience smiling and cheering throughout.

The “Jingle Bell Jukebox” Orchestra featured St. Patrick’s Music Director Chris Vath on piano, along with eighth grader Alexandre D’Aquino. Scott Still played percussion and Jeremy Fox played bass.

Following the play, the third graders told the traditional story of the birth of Jesus in “Carriers of the Light.”

Musical selections included “I Will Name Him Jesus,” “We Three Kings” and “Joy to the World.” The play follows Mary and Joseph on their journey to the manger where Jesus is born.

The show was directed by Brian Worsdale, along with Orchestra Director Lavinia Pavlish and Vath. Principal Andrea D’Emic served as executive producer and called the event a tremendous success.