A Yorkshire university has ignited a fierce row with its Christian student community by permitting a controversial LGBTQ+ reinterpretation of the nativity story to be staged on campus.
The Controversial Production
Put on by York St John University's LGBTQ network, the play titled 'A Gay In A Manger' presents a radically altered version of the traditional Christmas story. In this production, baby Jesus and his parents Mary and 'Jo' are depicted as homosexual. The three wise men are portrayed as drag queens, and heaven is reimagined as a vibrant gay disco.
The plot, as described on the student union website, follows Mary and Jo as "very close friends" who "packed their pride flags and set off on the long journey to the best gay club this side of the Red Sea – Heaven." The antagonist is 'Queen Herod', who issues a royal proclamation for "a mandatory party across the land" and plots against the new "King of the Gays," declaring "only she could be the Queerest Icon in the Land."
Student Backlash and Accusations of Discrimination
The decision to allow the performance has provoked significant anger among Christian students. Josiah Diamond, a 21-year-old second-year politics and international relations student, formally wrote to the university to raise concerns. He argued that the play discriminates against Christians and suggested that a similar production mocking Islamic beliefs—such as one titled 'A Gay in Mecca'—would not be tolerated.
In his letter, seen by The Telegraph, Diamond stated: "This portrayal is not only blasphemous in a direct sense, but of a particular offensive and violating nature to adherents of the faith and openly opposing doctrine." He further claimed that by allowing the play, the university is supportive of groups that "openly mock the Bible." Diamond also cited legal advice indicating this was a matter of direct discrimination, not freedom of speech.
University and Student Union Response
The university's student union, which is handling the issue, has defended the production. Donna Smith, the chief executive officer of the student union, stated that while the university is proud of its Christian heritage, it is also "committed to being an inclusive environment that respects and supports people of all faiths and none."
Smith asserted she found "no evidence" that the play constitutes unlawful harassment, discrimination, or hate speech under UK law. She believes there will be no use of threatening or abusive words intended to stir up religious hatred. The union's official position is that the play represents a "reinterpretation of a religious theme which is protected under artistic expression" and that there is "no differential treatment of religious groups."
Planned Protests and Performance Details
Despite the union's defence, the controversy is escalating. Josiah Diamond has confirmed that many Christian students plan to protest outside the building on the night of the performance, angered by the decision to let it proceed.
The play is scheduled to take place on Thursday evening. Tickets are available on the student union's website for £1.50, or for £2.50 on the door. The Daily Mail has approached York St John University for further comment on the growing dispute.
