A new, family-friendly Christmas exhibit at the University of Dayton shares the medieval story of a juggler whose humble performance as a gift to Virgin Mary brought her statue to life.

“The Christmas story of the Juggler has been adapted through the centuries in books, operas, ballets and animated films,” said Sarah Cahalan, director of the Marian Library. “We bring the story to life with live performances, story times, books and artifacts, and a selection of our Nativity collection that complement the Juggler story.”

“Juggling for Mary” is free and open to the public through Jan. 27 inside Roesch Library. Information on hours and parking is available at go.udayton.edu/christmas-exhibit.

The exhibit includes a family-friendly first-floor space that hosts live demonstrations by jugglers; interactive experiences such as trying your hand at juggling; and a photo area. A story nook filled with children’s books also is available and will be the location for read-aloud story times.

Also located on the first floor is an original stained-glass window depicting the Juggler with Mary, as well as a display of manuscripts and illustrations by famous children’s author Tomie dePaola.

A selection of Nativity sets, along with books and artifacts, can be seen on the seventh floor, and an outdoor story walk, created by University of Dayton teacher education students, is available on campus as well.