HOUSTON — The Ensemble Theatre is known for putting on a great holiday production, complete with dazzling spectacle, deeper meanings, and lots of soulful sounds!
This holiday season, The Ensemble Theatre is giving the community ‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ by Chika Kaba Ma’Atunde.
‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ is written (book, music, and lyrics) by Chika Kaba Ma’Atunde and directed, with choreography by Aisha Ussery. It is a delightful musical review that explores the various ways that Christmas is celebrated; with family, with friends, the importance of the religious significance of the holiday to some, the wonder of being a child receiving gifts, the longing of a soldier away at war, and even explores the reality of those experiencing grief during the holiday season. Aisha Ussery is at the helm of the production. Ussery has an extensive resume as a director, choreographer, musician, playwright, and performing arts educator, and is known for her dynamic performances; whether she herself is performing or directing/choreographing others.
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is chockfull of different celebratory traditions grounded in when, where and how one grew up, what one’s life has become and the ideas one holds most precious. At its core, Christmas holds space for everyone, wherein we reflect on joys and losses, show gratitude for abundance, bless those in need, and honor the birth of a Savior. ‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ takes us on a journey into the many ways people observe this special day. With fiery and luscious jazzy tunes, Chika Kaba Ma’atunde’s book and score incite laughter, tears, praise, and a soul-stirring desire to snap your fingers and sing along,” Ussery is quoted saying.
“‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ is a show that acknowledges the different ways people experience Christmas through song. Regardless of one’s feelings about Christmas, there is something in ‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ that will touch the hearts of everyone,” Ma’Atunde said.
‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ will feature some of The Ensemble Theatre’s best vocalists including, Anthony Boggess-Glover, Jazmyn Bolden, Bridgjette Taylor Jackson, JaKori Jackson, Fortune Onwunali, Gloria Prince, and April Wheat.
‘The Twelve Ways of Christmas’ opens on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, and runs through Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024.
