Black Nativity

Black Nativity was commissioned by Karamu House in Cleveland, Ohio—one of the oldest African American theaters in the United States—and premiered on Broadway at the 41st Street Theatre in December 1961. Langston Hughes wrote the piece specifically for an all-Black cast retelling the Nativity through gospel music.

Yes, Black Nativity has become an enduring Christmas tradition in several American cities, most notably in Boston, where the National Center of Afro-American Artists has staged a production every holiday season since around 1970. Many churches and community theaters also perform it during the Christmas season.

Director Kasi Lemmons directed a 2013 film adaptation titled 'Black Nativity,' starring Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, and Jennifer Hudson. The film reimagined Hughes's stage revue as a contemporary family drama rather than a direct staging of the original production.

Hughes structured the piece around traditional gospel music, spirituals, and carols drawn from the African American musical tradition rather than composing original songs. The production functions as a narrated gospel performance, with the script interweaving scripture and Hughes's own poetry.