St. Francis of Assisi is credited with presenting the first Christmas pageant on Christmas Eve in the early 1200s. Fast forward to the 21st century when Christmas pageants haven’t veered too far from the 13th century version with Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus and a few animals.

Inspired by slam poetry, Rev. Katy Shedlock, United Methodist clergy, church planter and co-pastor at The Creator’s Table in Spokane, Washington, decided to change it up. In the “Deleted Scenes Christmas Pageant,” Shedlock puts the spotlight on Mary, filling in the unknown parts of the traditional story with an unconventional narrative that highlights Mary as a powerful, fierce teen woman.