Holiday Gospel Music in Black Nativity

Put a little soul into your holidays with a performance of Black Nativity, a re-telling of the Christmas story through the words of the great American poet, Langston Hughes.  Traditional carols are sung gospel style by the entirely black cast, and the stage is turned into a joyous “nondenominational church” that unites artists and audiences of different faiths, ages, backgrounds and beliefs through the heart-stirring power of song, story and dance.

The production begins in the dark, as singers in white robes walk in, carrying candles and singing the hymn “Go Tell it on the Mountain.”  The story then follows through the birth of Jesus, featuring a dramatic use of African drums and percussion instruments to represent Mary’s contractions and giving birth.  The roles of the Three Wise Men are played by prominent members of the black community in the area.  The show builds to its inevitable climax, a reversal of the way it started, and ends with a soliloquy by a young child.

This is the 13th year for Black Nativity, a cooperative effort of Intiman Theatre and Seattle Theatre Group.

Location:  Moore Theater, 1932 Second Avenue, downtown (map).  The production has moved to this larger venue after 12 years of sold-out performances.

Date & Time:  December 9-26th, 2010, various times (check the calendar of performances)

Tickets:  $25-55, all youth tickets (ages 18 and under) are $15 for all performances.  A variety of promotions and discount tickets are also available.  Tickets can be purchased online, by phone, or at the box office.

Photo credit:  Courtesy of Seattle Theatre Group