Review: Black Nativity
Intiman Theatre
Let me say this, then I can move on and review the play.
Joy! Joy! Joy!
On Friday night, I saw the Black Nativity: A Gospel Song Play by Langston Hughes at the Intiman Theatre. This performance is entering its second decade as a Seattle Christmas tradition for all.
Black Nativity tells the story of the birth of Christ through words, song, and dance. The second part of the play deals with the black church experience today. This is a production that through gospel songs and dancing from traditional to tap it conveys the joy and hope of people. It includes all faiths, no one is left out. It’s something that you can make your own tradition to go see every year, it’s that wonderful. It also changes so that it’s a new experience every year.
The company of actors, dancers and musicians is lead by Pastor Patrinell Wright and includes Rev. Mr. Joseph E. Connor, G. To’mass Jones and Phyllis C. Yastake as narrators; Bojohn Diciple as Joseph and Pamela Yasutake as Mary. Last but by no means forgotten, the wonderful Total Experience and the Black Nativity Choirs. Everyone was impressive but some stood out in very delightful ways. The choreography by Kabby Mitchell with the dancers seemed to soar above the audiences. The dancers were able to blend in with the storytelling, seamlessly and added to the overall story. The humor worked well with many casts members taking turns to share something with all.
Music under the direction of award winning Pastor Patrinell Wright can only be superb. The music selection and the singing made you want to jump up and clap your hands and the audience did just that. Reverend Dr. Samuel B McKinney has passed the duties and torch of the narrator for Black Nativity to Mr. Jones who performed the duties with skill and a wonderful voice, he’s up to the task.
The set design is simple and works well with such a large group always on stage. The costumes added to the storyline. In the first half of the story, costumes consisted of long colorful robes and tunics. The second half featured black robes with colorful designed trim that blended in and was not distracting in any way.
I think no matter what day you go to this play, it will be like a Sunday at church. It takes you back to being in church and listening to those wonderful gospel songs. After speaking with folks who come to see this play every year as a holiday event I now understand why. It’s up-lifting at a time of year when everyone wants to experience the meaning of Christmas. So, even if in the past your place of worship did not included black gospel songs, it’s not to late to hear them in a wonderful setting.
Happy Holiday.
– Ethel W.
Black Nativity plays at Intiman Theatre until December 27. For more info and tickets visit www.intiman.org. Special guest soloist includes Karma Johnson, an American Idol contestant from the show’s first season, on December 19th at 8pm.
You can see a preview of the show here:
