A gospel tradition lives on

In Intiman Theatre’s continuing tradition, tonight’s official opening night performance of “Black Nativity: A Gospel Song Play” by Langston Hughes will benefit three local non-profit organizations that serve youth and families of diverse backgrounds and cultures.

The traditional holiday show opened Wednesday and performances continue through Dec. 27.

Intiman Theatre presents this holiday show, which features Pastor Patrinell Wright and the Rev. Samuel B. McKinney. The production features gospel performances by the Total Experience Gospel Choir and the Black Nativity Choir, modern and traditional choreography performed by an ensemble of dancers, and an on-stage band.

The 2006 season beneficiaries are:

Joyas Mestizas, a performing regional Mexican dance group.

Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets changes the community’s perceptions of street-involved individuals by creating an inclusive, nondiscriminatory, educating environment that promotes self-advocacy and unity.

Southern Sudanese Community of Washington helps people from southern Sudan make smooth transitions into American life, as well become self-sufficient.

Tonight’s performance also will benefit one of Intiman’s continuing programs, the Mary Helen Moore Black Nativity Scholarship Ticket Fund, which distributes scholarship tickets to more than 300 young people who could not otherwise afford to attend the production.

Chris Bennion photo

The Rev. Samuel B. McKinney and choir in “Black Nativity” at Intiman Theatre in Seattle.