PGMBC Saints attended a performance of “The Twelve Ways of Christmas” at Houston Ensemble Theatre. Chika Kaba Ma’atunde’s score taught us how we celebrate Christmas differently. While a perfect Christmas cannot be promised, each of the twelve mini-plays acted out live on stage could be related to it in some way. Yes, there have been many Christmases in our lives that have involved the birth of a new baby, grieving the loss of a loved one, being away from home, religion, loneliness, animosity, basketball or football games, or dealing with financial concerns.

The “Twelve Ways” combines colorful jazz, R&B, and gospel to transport us back to the heart of our most memorable holiday experiences. This fusion of joy, fun, loneliness, jealousy, and grief is infused with 12 “ways” of love. The dancing was incredible, and PGMBC and the audience greatly enjoyed and marveled at the incredible energy expended during each segment. 

As the “True Christmas” segment unfolded, we felt as though we had been in a gospel-like environment. We felt like we were at our church, singing and dancing, hand clapping and singing, as God was revered, they asked, “Can I get an “AMEN” PGMBC and the audience replied with an “AMEN”. Our enjoyment of the sermon on Jesus’ birth and the interpretive dance on the Nativity Story was excellent, and all the players’ performances left us feeling happy and overjoyed. The performance was moving. We were so grateful for the joy that “The Twelve Ways of Christmas” brought us!