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Jersey Arts TV: Black Nativity Brings Blessings to the Basie


By Gina Marie Rodriguez & Dave Tavani

originally published: 12/21/2023


"Black Nativity", a gospel song play inspired by the Gospel of Luke and with a book written by Langston Hughes, first premiered on Broadway in 1961. It has since been performed all over the world as a joyful, musical celebration of the Nativity story. Dunbar Repertory Company will bring its vision of this timeless classic to the Count Basie Center for the Arts this December 30th.

Jersey Arts speaks to Darrell Lawrence Willis, Sr., Artistic Director of Dunbar Repertory Company and his team as they celebrate their latest production of "Black Nativity."

Red Bank, NJ | December 30, 2023 at 4pm.  Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

Gina Marie Rodriguez is an award-winning screenwriter, director, and actress. Her foray into filmmaking began at a young age as a way to avoid public speaking in school. From there, it grew into a love of telling stories and creating new worlds. Gina Marie boasts a Bronze Remi win from Worldfest Houston, Best Female Filmmaker from the Cosmic Film Festival, and a Best Actress in a Comedy from the Hang Onto Your Shorts Film Festival alongside nominations from the Golden Door International Film Festival, Official Latino Film and Arts Festival and Los Angeles Cinefest among others.
Dave Tavani is a freelance videographer and still photographer based in the Philadelphia area. In recent years, Dave has worked on a variety of projects, mostly for nonprofit and arts organizations. In addition to JerseyArts.com, he works on video projects for McCarter Theatre Center, The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, Visit Philadelphia, Bristol Riverside Theatre, Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture, The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and ArtPride New Jersey.




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