Black Nativity by Langston Hughes
Black Nativity tells the Christmas story from the African American perspective through a celebration of scripture, poetry, dance, and song. The production bridges ancient Bethlehem with the contemporary Black church experience, exploring themes of faith, family, struggle, and redemption. Each performance features the musical stage production accompanied by a post-show talkback.
What to Expect
The Christmas story told through scripture, poetry, dance, and song.
Event Details
Duration
2 hours with a 15 minute intermission.
Ages
8+
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Black Arts MKE
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with older children and theatergoers interested in african american christmas traditions
Vibe
Soulful and uplifting
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Low
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Community Night: Thursday December 10th at 7:30PM; Friday December 11th at 7:30PM; Saturday December 12th at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; Sunday December 13th at 2:00PM.
- Parking: Covered garage connected to the Marcus Center by a third-floor skywalk, plus a drop-off drive at the North Water Street entrance.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance is available at the theater.
Tips & Advice
- Bring children only if they're 8 or older, since that is the recommended age for this year's Black Nativity production.
- Allow about two hours for the visit, which covers the show, the 15-minute intermission and the post-show talkback with each performance.
- Use the half-circle drive at the 929 North Water Street entrance for drop-off, or park in the attached garage and take the third-floor skywalk in.
- Book through Marcus Center group sales if you have 10 or more people, because groups get early access, help with seating and lower ticket prices.
- Groups can add a lunch buffet before a weekend matinee or a dinner before an evening show by asking for it when they reserve tickets.
Special Events & Promotions
- Community Night is Thursday, December 10.
- Student matinees on Thursday and Friday.
- New this year: the directing debut of Antoine Reynolds Sr., with Sheri Williams Pannell as artistic advisor.
- Groups can add a lunch buffet before a weekend matinee or a dinner before an evening show when they reserve tickets.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages is Black Nativity suited for?
Ages 8 and up.
How long is the show?
About two hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Each performance also has a post-show talkback.
What's different about this year's production?
Antoine Reynolds Sr. directs for the first time. He has been BAMKE's Black Nativity music director for 10 years. Sheri Williams Pannell is the artistic advisor. This year's version sets the story within contemporary Black church and family life while keeping the spirit of the original.
Where can I park?
A covered parking garage connects to the Marcus Center by a third-floor skywalk. For drop-off and pickup, there's a half-circle drive at the front entrance at 929 North Water Street.
Can we come as a group?
Yes. Group reservations are open now. Groups of 10 or more get early access, help with seating and lower prices than regular tickets. They can also add on-site catering.
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