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When the opening notes of "Joy to the World" ring out into the darkened, silent theatre, you immediately have the sense that this show will be unlike any other holiday production you’ve seen—and you’re right. Soon, the band kicks in and the rhythm and bass blend with the gospel notes of Pastor Patrinell Wright and her Black Nativity Choir, and your evening is transformed into a magical blend of music, dance and poetry, luring you out of your seat, setting your feet tapping and your soul soaring. By the time the evening is over, your whole body is vibrating and it’s difficult to wipe the smile off of your face. You’ve just experienced Black Nativity
SYNOPSIS
In the first act, you’ll witness the Christmas story retold in the words of the great African-American poet, Langston Hughes, the electric gospel music of Pastor Patrinell Wright and the Black Nativity Choir and the intricate staging and beautiful dance of Director Jacqueline Moscou and Choreographer Kabby Mitchell III. From the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, to their difficulty finding a room and banishment to the stables, to the birth of their baby, Jesus and his visits from shepherds and wise men, the story comes to vibrant life on the INTIMAN stage. Throughout, the riveting presence of Seattle icon Rev. Dr. Samuel B. McKinney serves as a guide through the story, while the Black Nativity Choir and dancers bring energy and passion to the story. The result is the Christmas Story as you’ve never experienced it before!
After a brief intermission to catch your breath, the second act takes off. You find yourself now at the INTIMAN interdenominational church for a revival led by Rev. Dr. McKinney and Pastor Wright—and they dare you to keep from jumping to your feet, clapping your hands and singing along. At Black Nativity, audience participation is encouraged and adored. As the music breaks over you and the dancers take the stage again, let your spirit soar—after all, it is the holiday season!
After the show is over, mingle in the lobby and let your comments be heard by fellow audience members, or members of the cast and choir if they make an appearance, and see if you don’t agree with this Black Nativity audience member: “The dancing and the singing and the story…it’s so inspirational, and so wonderful!
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