By Chloe Schildhause
Feeling cold this winter? I am, but it’s not all due to the weather. It’s that gospel sending chills down my spine! That’s right – there are plenty of places to hear live gospel music in the city, whether you’re religious (or Christian) or not.
Gospel is something that can be enjoyed by everyone, despite race, religion, gender or species. In fact, I’d venture to say that everyone should have the experience of being enveloped by the powerful vocals of a gospel choir at least once in their lives. Why not start this winter?
Black Nativity: A Gospel Celebration of Christmas
The Lorraine Hansberry Theatre is continuing a seasonal tradition this December with their 10th annual “Black Nativity: A Gospel Celebration of Christmas.” After a five-year absence, original show creator Miss Arvis Stickling-Jones returns as musical director and lead actor. (The original script of Black Nativity came with no music; Strickling-Jones who composed it all and made the production what it is today.)
This year’s version will see some new elements, including a tribute to Bernie Mac and music influenced by Isaac Hayes and rapper T.I. “We keep it fresh,” Strickling-Jones said of the annual favorite. “You don’t know what to expect.”