The significance of the full cast in the Christmas story is multi - faceted. The angels are important messengers, bringing the news of the birth to different parties. The characters like Herod add a sense of conflict and the political context of the time. The full cast, from the lowly stable animals (represented by perhaps puppets or actors in some interpretations) to the grand wise men, together create a vivid picture of the event that is central to the Christian celebration of Christmas. They all contribute to the rich tapestry of the story that has been passed down through generations and is a fundamental part of the holiday's meaning.