After selling out its final weeks, Seattle's Intiman Theatre's production of Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes' Black Nativity will close Dec. 26. The production opened Dec. 1 after beginning performances Nov. 27.
With gospel singer and pastor Patrinell Wright and her Total Experience Gospel Choir at the head, Black Nativity is composed of Hughes' poetry, gospel songs and the traditional nativity story. Nativity was originally written by Hughes to bring the African-American experience to Christmas celebrations.
Jacqueline Moscou directs a cast that features community leader and Mount Zion Baptist Church's Pastor Emeritus Reverend Samuel McKinney as the Elder/Narrator, Thomas Arthur Grant (Joseph), Jimi Ray Malary (Narrator), Cynthia Jones (Narrator), Joel Rene (Mary) and Wright (the Woman). The gospel choir includes Lisa Allen, Gena Brooks, Tanisha Brooks, Joseph Connor, Ronald Corsey, Nicol V. Esteridge, Monica T. McAfee, Aaron Petry, Tony Potts, Bobbi Sims, Stephna Sneed, Lulu Strange, Mary Strange and Leah Vladowski.
Pacific Northwest Ballet's Kabby Mitchell choreographs. Wright musical directs.
Dana Perrault designed the set, Doris Landolt the costumes, David Pascal the sound and Rick Paulsen the lights. Wendiana Walker is the stage manager. Tickets for Black Nativity are $38-$28 and available by calling the Intiman Box Office at 206-269-1900.
-- By Christine Ehren