A Must-See Holiday Celebration:
Black Nativity: A Gospel Christmas Musical Experience is a triumph of music, movement, and culture. A perfect blend of tradition and artistry, it brings the story of Jesus’ birth to life in a way that is both timeless and deeply personal.
Black Nativity: A Gospel Christmas Musical Experience at the Ferst Center for the Arts is spectacular. It is the most moving and visually stunning performance I have ever witnessed about Joseph and Mary. Based on Langston Hughes’ iconic song play, this production reimagines the Nativity story through an African American lens, blending gospel music, dance, and vibrant African culture to celebrate the birth of Jesus, as told in the Book of Matthew.
The show opens in a modern-day African American church on Christmas Day, where Pastor Bridgewater, played with commanding presence by griot Marcus Hopkins-Turner, sets the tone with heartfelt preaching and powerful storytelling. The congregation bursts to life with fervent singing, testifying deacons, and spirited, sanctified ladies. From the first note, the energy is infectious, drawing the audience into a world filled with praise, joy, and faith.
Sakina Bennett as Mary and Tony DeBerry as Joseph deliver beautifully understated performances, embodying the purity and grace of their journey to Bethlehem. The musical high point comes during the breathtaking duet of “Mary, Did You Know?”—a soul-stirring moment that lingers long after the final note. Complementing this are powerful renditions of beloved spirituals featured on the production’s eponymous soundtrack, each song delivered with both reverence and exuberance.
Visually, the production is a feast for the eyes, thanks to the brilliant costume design by Jarrod Barnes. Traditional African attire shines throughout—rich Kente cloth, intricate mud cloth patterns, and tunics adorned with cowrie shells give the Three Wise Kings regal stature. The angels, dressed in flowing and radiant white caftans, appear ethereal, with gold-thread embellishments, shimmering crystals, and sunburst halo headpieces that dazzle under the lights. Barnes’ meticulous attention to detail transforms the stage into a vibrant tapestry that honors African heritage while celebrating the Christmas story.
The choreography is another standout, blending traditional African dance with ballet and gospel-inspired movement. Ballerina Charray Helton delivers a show-stopping performance, executing a perfectly balanced pirouette en pointe that leaves the audience breathless. Her graceful movements, combined with the rhythmic energy of the ensemble, bring the story to life in dynamic and sacred ways.
Black Nativity’s ability to seamlessly blend tradition, culture, and spirituality into one cohesive experience makes it extraordinary. The production transports the audience from a contemporary church setting to the journey of Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, all while weaving together music, movement, and storytelling that honor African American traditions. It’s a celebration of faith, resilience, and the true meaning of Christmas.
This is not merely a musical—it’s a cultural and spiritual experience that resonates deeply. Black Nativity invites audiences to rejoice, reflect, and connect with the season’s beauty through the power of gospel music and African heritage.
This unforgettable production runs until December 22 at the Ferst Center for the Arts. Time is running out to secure your seats for this joyous celebration of faith, family, and culture. Visit www.blacknativityatl.com or call (404) 894-9600 to reserve your spot. Get ready for a holiday experience unlike any other!
Remaining show schedule:
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Sunday, Dec 15, 2024, 3 – 5pm
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Thursday, Dec 19, 2024, 7:30 – 9:30pm
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Friday, Dec 20, 2024, 7:30 – 9:30pm
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Saturday, Dec 21, 2024, 2 – 4pm
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Saturday, Dec 21, 2024, 7:30 – 9:30pm
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Sunday, Dec 22, 2024, 3 – 5pm
