Langston Hughes’ Gospel Song-Play Black Nativity returns to Seattle December 12 through 30th at Intiman Theatre. The new, re-imagined production celebrates the hope and joy of the Christmas story and invites guests to immerse themselves in the music of the season, performed by a city-wide gospel choir. 

Music director Sam Townsend Jr. shares the show’s ensemble is comprised of some of the best singers and musicians from various churches around the Pacific Northwest. They are singing together for the first time, yet some are returning to the choir after performing in the show in years past. 

“Their songs of struggle, faith, and triumph are rooted in real-life experience,” he said. “Intiman Theatre and the Black Nativity production have elevated the voices of people in a way that reaches beyond the walls of our local churches, so the glorious sounds of hope and redemption are heard throughout the community.”

The show features both gospel songs and gospel renditions of classic Christmas carols and welcomes guests of all ages to engage, with certain portions of the show dedicated to singing along.

The Black Nativity creative team aims to offer a moving experience for people of all backgrounds and beliefs in a way that showcases the importance of hope and community.

Townsend shared, “Music does not seek permission to touch your inner soul, it just does. Music unlocks shackled emotions, mends broken dreams, and resurrects hope. It is my prayer that the healing spirit of this music spreads throughout the theater, touching every person. And in turn, every person leaves the theater and shares the gift they received with their families, coworkers, and neighbors.” 

Jamila Treneé, an alto in the choir of Black Nativity is excited to participate in the show with such a gifted group of people. In total, there will be 30 people on stage including a live band, offering a truly spectacular gospel event that will leave guests inspired. 

“I get to show off my vocal ability, my skills, flex some runs, and stretch my range,” she said. “I get to let my voice go to a theatrical level and get into character while still sending the same message.”

Intiman Theatre produced Black Nativity from 1998 to 2012 and is thrilled to bring it back this year with director Valerie Curtis-Newton. The soulful retelling is an ideal way to embrace the Christmas spirit.

Shaunyce Omar, who will be the narrator of this year’s Black Nativity production, says, “I’m excited about all of the families, returning and new, who will experience Black Nativity this season.”

Our communities – and our world as a whole – have experienced so much in recent years. Black Nativity aims to bring people together, uniting them for one purpose: to celebrate the beauty and magic of the season.

“Life can take a lot away from us, but it can never take our song,” Townsend said. “We may cry, but we still sing. We may stumble, but we still sing. It is our faith in the love of Christ that we sing about, and nothing can silence that song.”

Click here to learn more about Black Nativity and to purchase tickets.