Chapman and Lewis, in the roles of Joseph and Mary, are but two big names in a cast of 18. The performers will present a musical drama depicting the birth of Jesus Christ.

Other contemporary Christian music stars treading the boards for the month-long tour include Twila Paris, Wayne Watson, Clay Crosse, Russ Taff and Rachael Lampa. Members of the singing group 4HIM will play the shepherds.

The show, written and produced by theatre veterans Stormie and Michael Omartian, promises the elaborate staging and storytelling on a scale with “Les Miserables” and “Phantom of the Opera.”

There will also be a companion CD, featuring performances of many of the original cast members and others, including Amy Grant, Donna Summer, Richard Marx, Michael W. Smith, Gary Chapman and Vince Gill.

The tour opens November 25 in Boise, Idaho, and makes stops in Portland, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Dallas, Pittsburgh, Detroit, St. Louis, and a dozen other cities before winding down in St. Paul, Minn., on December 16.