Produced by the National Center of Afro-American Artists, Black Nativity is the joyous account of an historic event that occurred 2,000 years ago. It’s a celebration that tells the original story of the Nativity in scripture, verse, music and dance. Based on the Gospel of St. Luke, combined with the poetry of Langston Hughes, this song-play touches a special chord in the hearts of all.

This legendary Christmas event, the Black community’s Christmas gift to the world, is without a doubt a theatrical wonderment. A joyous company of 160 singers, actors, dancers and musicians delivers its powerful message of joy, hope, victory and liberation.

Boston’s captivating production is the longest running performance of Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes’ song-play in the world. The December 5th opening marks its 39th consecutive season of 12 exhilarating performances.
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The NCAAA will dedicate its 39 th season of performances to Mrs. Pear Allen in appreciation for her enormous contribution to the life of the show, as well as to the larger work of the Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts and the NCAAA.

Pearl announced near the end of the 38 th season of Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity that this was her last round as organist for the production. Ms. Allen, who joined the staff of the Elma Lewis School of Fine Arts half a century ago as Wardrobe Mistress in the Sewing and Costuming Department, is a gifted keyboard artist and soon found all of her talents valued by the NCAAA. In l970, our first production of Black Nativity was mounted. Mrs. Allen joined noted Musical Director John Andrew Ross at the piano and organ. Every season since, except for a short period of illness, Mrs. Allen performed with the show. She gave a decidedly uplifting gospel accent to the sound of Black Nativity, an uplift that evinced her personal warmth and kindness.