10 Years of Reimagining

Black Nativity is a gospel song-play by Langston Hughes that utilizes scripture, poetry, dance, and song to tell the Christmas story from an African American perspective. The play was first performed in 1961 and was an Off-Broadway debut. The work has been such a success that it has become a holiday tradition with performances across the country, including Milwaukee.

2025 marks Black Arts MKE’s 10th Anniversary Production of Black Nativity in Milwaukee. Each year, Black Arts MKE, a Black-led performing arts organization serving predominantly Black communities, remimagines the Black Nativity production by adding in elements that relate to current-day times.

Milwaukee’s production of Black Nativity will run from December 11-14, 2025, at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.

According to a press release, this year’s production marks a new chapter under the direction of Sheri Williams Pannell, a well-respected Milwaukee theater artist, educator, and cultural leader.

“I feel like it’s a huge responsibility, but at the same time a dream come true,” said Williams Pannell.

She said this year’s production of Black Nativity will revisit African-American traditions and get people back enthusiastic about them. Kwanza will also be a part of the show, and there will even be an Afrofuturism moment mixed in, too.

“This musical is our holiday offering to the world,” said Williams Pannell. “This is our tradition [and] it is accessible to all.”

Partnering with Divine Nine

Along with a new director comes new partnerships. Members of local Divine Nine chapters have donated authentic African garments and textiles that have inspired and shaped this year’s production’s costume design. The contributions will be celebrated publicly during Divine Nine Night on Opening Night, Friday, December 12, 2025.

Antoine Reynolds Sr. is returning as the music director to lead the musical arrangements, while Milwaukee-born choreographer Davien Holton brings his national experience back home. Holton is originally from Milwaukee and has recently performed in the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show with Usher.

Although each year is reimagined, Williams Pannell said the message remains the same.

“To recognize that even in the most difficult moments in our history, African-American people have found a way to have joy. Black Nativity is an example of this beautiful truth,” said Williams Pannell.

To purchase your tickets to the 2025 Black Arts MKE production of Black Nativity, click here.

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