The star that shone over that tiny Bethlehem manger surely shines over Seattle and the production of "Black Nativity."
In the 12th consecutive year of Intiman Theatre's beloved tradition, Langston Hughes' "Black Nativity" features 40-plus singers and dancers, ages 16 to 80, from churches all over Seattle.
At any performance of "Black Nativity," the audience is made up of all faiths, races, ages and walks of life doing something our world leaders cannot manage--rejoicing together in peace and harmony.
Hughes' uplifting gospel play unfolds in two parts: the birth of Jesus as seen through the scripture, familiar carols, improvisational music and the dance traditions of African-American culture, followed by a rousing gospel songfest.
Hughes retells the story as if he himself had followed that star to find all races of people kneeling together beside the manger. Originally created by Hughes during the civil rights movement, this nativity scene is like no other. Along the way, you meet a jive-talking shepherd (who would rather herd ladies than sheep), graceful Madonnas, dancing angels and gaggles of gossipy women.
Director Jacqueline Moscou has crafted a version of Hughes' play with a gospel and jazz influence. Lead by three narrators, Josephine Howell, Jimi Ray Malary and the Rev. Mr. Joseph E. Connor, a large cast of all colors, sizes and ages sing, croon and shout Hughes' pulsing rhythms. And thanks to Kabby Mitchell III's dynamic choreography, movement is as much a part of this production as music.
There is a human quality to the performance, a purity of spirit that unfolds onstage. A big-hearted celebration of faith, Moscou's production is an African quilt of many colors with hip-hop, jazz, a little moonwalking, African beats, even a bit of cha-cha-cha.
Pastor Patrinell Wright and her famed Total Experience Choir provide the foundation for the show. One of the virtuoso gospel singers in our area, Wright launches the evening with an a cappella version of "Joy to the World," as the choir sways their way onstage, their voices raised in song. Rather than somber robes so often seen on choirs, these singers wear vibrant patterns of reds, blues, golds and greens, draped into flowing garments fashioned from authentic African fabrics by designer Doris Black.
During the second half of Hughes' gospel song-play, the theater becomes what Pastor Wright affectionately calls the "Intiman Nondenominational Church." She's a take-charge musical shepherdess, who makes sure there's an abundance of joy in the theater
As Pastor Wright and her flock sway, stand and clap, so does the audience. If you've never attended this style of spiritual celebration, it will be a different audience experience. You will be encouraged to stand up and spontaneously clap, cheer and shout out.
Although he has been a guest artist, this year Sanjaya Malakar makes his official "Black Nativity" debut. The Federal Way teen became a mega-celebrity as a finalist in the 2007 American Idol competition. Now he's returned to his choir roots with the Total Experience Gospel Choir and Pastor Wright, his long-time mentor. Sanjaya delivers a touching rendition of "His Eye is On the Sparrow." FYI for his followers: He still sports that radiant smile, but his curly tresses have turned to stubble and he's working on a beard.
Another standout is well-seasoned Evelina A. King, whose signature number is "This Little Light of Mine." This year, in particular, she tops her past performances, proving you don't have to be a teenage sensation to be a star.
All the numbers are memorable. But the magnificent Josephine Howell is "the one." She radiates enough joy to rival the sun and the moon. Not only is she a narrator in the first act, she dances with the audience and playfully interjects the production with her enthusiastic antics. When she turns serious, Howell deserves the standing ovation she receives when she sings the heart-wrenching "Alabaster Box."
Langston Hughes' creation has become a treasured tradition-and one of Seattle's hottest holiday tickets. Although the Intiman will continue to sponsor "Black Nativity, this marks the final year the production will be held at the theater. The sold-out show has outgrown the venue and needs a bigger space to accommodate its audiences.
Friendly rather than slick, jubilant rather than perfect, "Black Nativity" makes neighbors of us all. All you need bring is your heart. "Black Nativity" will do the rest.
"Black Nativity" runs Tuesday to Sunday through December 27th at Intiman Theatre, tickets $15-$45, 206-269-1900.
[[In-content Ad]]
