Use props. For example, if it's a story about Santa's sleigh, have a small model of the sleigh. Show it to the audience when relevant in the story. This visual element along with the story makes it more engaging. Also, offer small rewards for the best participation. It could be a little Christmas ornament.
One way is to have interactive readings. For example, the storyteller can pause at certain points and ask the audience what they think a character should do next. This gets the audience involved in shaping the story.
Add some gestures. When you talk about a character running, move your hands as if they are running. Also, build suspense. Don't reveal the ending too soon. For instance, in a mystery - like tell - tale story, keep the audience guessing about who the real culprit is until the right moment. Another thing is to make eye contact with your audience, it keeps them engaged and feeling involved in the story.
One way is to use different voices for each character in the story. It adds more fun and makes it easier for the listeners to distinguish between the characters.
Audience participation can create a sense of community. People feel closer to each other when they work together on a Christmas story, whether it's contributing ideas or voting on a story. It's a shared experience that brings people together during the holiday season.
Use props. For instance, if it's 'Rudolph the Red - Nosed Reindeer', have a red - nose prop for the kids to wear. This makes them feel more involved.
Use modern technology like virtual reality or augmented reality. For example, people could experience the journey of the wise men as if they were right there. Also, set the story in a modern context, like a shopping mall at Christmas time.
Using props like small replicas of the manger, stars, and gifts can make it more immersive. You can also have different voices for each character during the story. This adds a fun element to the interactive telling.
Use lots of vivid descriptions. For example, describe the glittery Christmas tree on the set, the smell of freshly baked cookies backstage. This will draw the audience in.
One popular Christmas audience participation story could be the 'The Christmas Carol' retelling. The audience can be involved by having them shout out the names of the ghosts as they appear. For example, when Scrooge first meets the Ghost of Christmas Past, the audience can call out 'Ghost of Christmas Past!' Another could be a story about Santa's workshop where the audience helps elves name a new toy. They can shout out their creative names.
We can use puppets to act out the christmas story while reading it in a creative way. For example, make the puppets talk in funny voices. Another idea is to make a simple comic strip of the story with the children, using their own drawings. This will make them more involved in the creative reading.