MARY LOUISE LEE 

 

BLACK NATIVITY

VINTAGE THEATRE: DEC 6 – 29

 

Of the four holiday productions that this reviewer has seen in the Aurora Theatre District this December, “Black Nativity” is the only one to approach the season with a sense of reverence. “Black Nativity” is an all-black, Gospel-Inspired Holiday Celebration by Langston Hughes.

     The show is directed by Jo Bunton Keel. 

     It’s been nearly three decades since I have seen a play directed by the esteemed Ms. Keel.     Her work on “The Gospel at Colonus” for Eulipions Theatre still resonates. One hopes to see her name in the theatre programs more often now.

     The play, written by Langston Hughes, is an adaptation of the Biblical events surrounding the birth of Jesus.

     Director Keel opens the play with Hugo Jon Hughes (The Breath of God) walking in through the audience and describing the creation of the world through an African filter as actors onstage dance the text. Hughes’ commanding delivery along with the flashes of light and sound mesmerize. 

    Dressed in royal African garb, Mary Louise Lee portrays Mother Africa, overseeing this reading of the nativity with grace and power. This artist’s singing of “Sweet Little Jesus Boy,” is heartfelt indeed.

   Standing out in the ensemble is Krisangela Washington in the role(s) of Mary/Dancer.

Besides being a sensationally talented vocalist (“Memphis” at THAC and “Buddy, the Buddy Holly Story” at BDT Stage) Washington here proves herself to be a skilled dancer as well.

    The mostly percussive accompaniment including drums, keyboard and guitar is beautifully played and enhances, rather than overwhelming the vocals.

  The music director is Minister Daryl Walker. His conducting of the just offstage band as well as that of the a Capella choral numbers is magnificent.

     One must make mention of other works of art that describe biblical events at this juncture.

    You can’t help thinking of John Huston’s 1966 film, “The Bible…in the Beginning,” in which two Scandinavian models were formed from the dust of the earth…as Adam and Eve … or the all-white cast performing the roles of Mary and Joseph in “Ben Hur, A Tale of the Christ.”

     It is much more realistic, and satisfying to the viewer, seeing black individuals portray African characters that were born between the Nile and the Euphrates all those years ago.

    Just sayin.’

    

I hope you get to see “BLACK NATIVITY.”

 

For tickets call the box office at 303-856-7830 or go online at vintagetheatre.org