Black Nativity: A Gospel Songplay 2026

About this event

Written by Langston Hughes, directed by Jerry Foster, music directed by JerMichael Riley PhD, choreography by Kemba Shannon.

Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity tells the story of the Nativity from an African-American perspective through a combination of scripture, poetry, dance, and song with griot-style narration.

A roof-raising, spirit-catching, musical tour-de-force that will bring you to your feet. Pure joy for the season! Bring the whole family. Make it a block party!

November 27 – December 6, 2026

Black Nativity TICKETS

Alberta Abbey

126 NE Alberta St.

Portland,

OR

97211

United States + Google Map

Click name for bio

Black Nativity 2026 Cast

Jerry Foster

Black Nativity Director, PassinArt Artistic Director, Board President

Kenneth Dembo

Black Nativity “Joseph”, PassinArt Production Manager, Board Secretary

Ardelia Gipson

Vocalist

JerMichael Riley, Ph.D.

Music Director

Joseph Eli Hardy

Vocalist

Jahana McCoy

Vocalist

Javon Carter

Vocalist

Kemba Shannon

Choreographer

Kenisha Blackman

Vocalist

Kimberly K. Black

Narrator

Matthew Montgomery

Musician

Trenelle Doyle

Vocalist

Kianna Lewis

Vocalist

Latitia McFarland

Vocalist

Talia Sampson

Vocalist

Jerel Scott

Vocalist

Wanda Walden

Costumer

Blanca Forzán

Light Designer

DeMareya Gipson

Black Nativity “Drummer”

Kimberly Black

Narrator

Lashell Harris

Zaria Williams

Vocalist

From PassinArt