Black Nativity: A Gospel Songplay by Langston Hughes

PassinArt: A Theatre Company brings back Black Nativity, their very popular holiday show, for three weeks only.  Originally produced off-Broadway in 1961, Black Nativity is Langston Hughes’ gorgeous, self-described “gospel song play.” 

“Nativity” uses a cultural lens to retell the classic holiday Biblical story through scripture, interpretive dance and singing—roof-raising, awe-inspiring singing. Traditional holiday favorites like “Come All Ye Faithful” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” are joined by gospel tunes like “There’s a Meeting Here Tonight” and folk spirituals like “Go Tell It on the Mountain” – all in rousing, soul-stirring versions that consistently move audiences from all walks of life.

Black Nativity has been performed annually for many years in cities such as Boston and Seattle. PassinArt has brought it Portland as an opportunity to build bridges across our communities during the season of brotherhood and peace. Director Jerry Foster says he hopes the audiences for Black Nativity come from all ethnicities, ages and backgrounds to celebrate the holidays. “This piece has been called the ‘black community’s gift to the world,” Foster said.  “We like to think of our production as a gift to Portland, a way we can all come together."

PassinArt: A Theatre Company is an African American producing theatre company whose mission is to entertain, educate, and inspire artists and audiences while addressing critical issues facing our community; and to celebrate our history and culture.

Season Supporting Sponsor:  Ronnie Lacroute