'Black Nativity' returns to Milwaukee for ninth annual production
Photo credit: Jenny Plevin MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- "Black Nativity by Langston Hughes" is returning to Milwaukee for its ninth annual holiday musical production. The performances will take place Dec. 5-8 at the Wilson Theater at Vogel Hall in the Marcus Center.
Presented by Black Arts MKE, the production revisits Hughes’ work, reflecting on philosophical and spiritual truths across generations from an African American perspective.
The show features African drumming, traditional gospel and contemporary arrangements selected by music director Antoine Reynolds.
Director Ashley S. Jordan returns after her debut in 2023, collaborating with artistic director Wanyah L. Frazier. Choreographer Debrasha Greye adds longer sequences of contemporary ballet to this year’s production.
Jordan indicated in a Wednesday, Oct. 30 press release that the production will center on Black family and authentically depict Black church culture. She mentioned that a dream element will connect the narrative to historical Jerusalem, featuring Jesus moving throughout the space as both a child and an adult. As the story unfolds, scenes will transition between domestic life and other experiences, depicting both struggles and triumphs.
Showtimes are:
- Thursday, Dec. 5, at 11 a.m. (student matinee) and 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 7, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 8, at 2 p.m.
Each show includes a post-show talkback and runs for 90 minutes. Tickets are available now, and more information can be found by clicking here.