Whether it’s a slightly inappropriate comedy spin on the story or a surprise casting as the Angel Gabriel, Nick Mohammed, Pearl Mackie, Omid Djalili and more look back on their infant brushes with stardom

Lines rehearsed and carols belted out in preparation. Shepherds, angels and kings queueing up, stage left, for their grand entrance. Mums and dads sitting patiently in the audience for the show of the season, hoping their child nails their appearance as sheep #4, or at the very least doesn’t misbehave in front of the whole auditorium.

Ah, the nativity, the beloved bible story that offers kids their first shot at performing and gives teachers the chance to flex their scriptwriting muscles. It has the potential to be a logistical nightmare, but might also be the early making of future acting greats.