Bishop Arts Theatre Center presents Black Nativity

Black Nativity

Inspired by the work of Langston Hughes

Adapted and Directed by Sheridan Singleton

Choreographed by J. Alexander Langley

Composer Nigel Newton

Vocal Coach Andrea Wallace

Scenic Designer/Set Chief Rodney Dobbs

Costume Designer Kyley Sanchez

Lighting Designer John Moss

Sound Designer Joshua Nguyen

Production Manager Nicholas Thornburg

Stage Manager Ruby Pullum

Master Electrician Steven Paul Chanpong

Asst Stage Manager Zetra Goodlow

Sound Op Gavin Leveritt

Light Board Op Noel Hawthorne

Cast

Stephanie Sullivan

Octavian Lewis

Alexandria Lofton

Jayqwon Tobias

Karrington Sneed

Eric Carter

Ryann Beckham

My thoughts on Black Nativity or…a tale retold with love, laughs, and songs.

Black Nativity has been a Dallas holiday tradition for almost two decades. This was my first time attending, but I was told the story is updated and revised with each new production. I am happy to report that in the hands of Sheridan Singleton, who both adapted and directed the play, Black Nativity is a delight for the eyes and ears.

In Act I we are introduced to the Storytellers who explain the background of the story and how the enslaved African people began to embrace Christianity. The Storytellers then become characters in this tale of the birth of Christ. Act I is beautiful and touching. It is reverent, but also humorous. There is some excellent dancing especially from Ryann Beckham who was choreographed by J. Alexander Langley. There are also harmonious songs from the talented cast. The set by Rodney Dobbs and costumes by Kyley Sanchez evoke the period but keep a definite modern flavor.

The switch in Act II was totally unexpected as the setting is now a church that is putting on a Christmas pageant. The new pastor is trying his best to fill his late father’s shoes with the help and prayers of his mother who is the First Lady of the church. There is much more humor here and it’s a bit like a Tyler Perry movie in places. However, the singing is glorious, and the entire audience was clapping along to “Go Tell It on the Mountain.”

The beauty of Black Nativity is its simplicity and lack of pretense. The characters all ring true and there is a warmth and happiness that comes from the cast and envelopes the theater.

The wonderful cast includes Stephanie Sullivan who shines as both a Storyteller and as the hilarious First Lady of the church. She also has quite the voice. Eric Carter, also blessed with some great pipes, is terrific as the struggling minister trying to keep the pageant rehearsal going and live up to his father’s reputation. Alexandria Lofton, with her infectious smile, is wonderful as the Mary character in Act I. We feel her both her sense of awe at being chosen to have God’s son and the pain of childbirth. Her scenes with JayQwon Tobias as the young couple blessed by God are charming. Tobias is quite good at dancing and singing and has an appealing stage presence. I kept thinking what a great Romeo he would make. Karrington Sneed is a top-notch singer and appears to have quite a gift for comedy as she spars with “rival singer” Octavian Lewis in Act II. This is the third production I have seen featuring Lewis and there is no denying that this young man is a star in the making. Vocally he falls somewhere between Peabo Bryson and John Legend but is actually smoother than both of them. That voice coupled with an innate acting ability and sense of movement will assure that his star continues to rise.

Director Singleton keeps her spectacular cast paced perfectly and this show will keep smiles on the faces of the entire family while their toes are tapping. “Go Tell It on the Mountain” and all over DFW to get to Bishop Arts Theatre Center for Black Nativity.