The holiday spirit is pouring out all over the current production of Langston Hughes' Black Nativity. I'm even thinking about writing a post or two from the production booth during the show, but I don't know when I can do that. It seems like my audio technician will be out tonight, so yours truly is going to have to put on another hat and just hope I don't have any feedback in the microphones.
As I was saying, I'm looking forward to the second weekend of Black Nativity. It has become quite a fascinating piece to direct. Last year, our inaugural year of producing it with Amun Ra Theatre (www.theamunratheatre.org), it was a challenge also, but I had some dead ringer singer/actors on board. We started out with 12 and ended up with a cast of 19, including dancers. This year, we're hovering around 30, so the challenges got multiplied. But the magic came in last weekend, and that baby is sailing now. We've got seasoned professionals, first-timers, and the Orchesis Dance Company from Fisk University mixing up the creativity. It's a special time, for real.
Dr. Peter A. Fields, our choreographer this year and last, is what I call the Mad Scientist of Movement. I don't think you'll find a production of Black Nativity that actually portrays Mary giving birth to Jesus on stage, complete with a three person body bag, blood, the Sun becoming the Son, and Joseph stepping into his earthly daddy hood. It's in this show and it draws applause just by itself.
I'm so fortunate to get the credit for directing this talented crew of people. Alex Stadaker and Terrance D. Brown are musicians that make people fall out, and each night, this group finds something new. Next year, I'm already planning something even more off the chain. Stay tuned…
My manager told me today that things are really gearing up for movie promotions on The Second Chance. I'm actually starting to get a little excited about the prospects of my first starring role in a motion picture. The movie website is growing every day, and the buzz is getting out. I really want to see this thing grow, because it will open the door to many more positive films being made if people turn out on February 17th, 2006.
Well, I gotta jet for now. I have to get to a reception and then set up the mics for tonight's play. See you soon.
joc
