The Classical Theatre of Harlem to Present THE FIRST NOEL, 12/11-31

This holiday season, The Classical Theatre of Harlem, in collaboration with the Apollo Theater, presents the world premiere of The First Noel. This Harlem- based holiday musical features music that crosses genres-from pop to jazz to gospel - to tell a universal story of love and belonging. Book, lyrics and music by Jason Michael Webb (Motown: The Musical, Violetand The Color Purple) and Lelund Durond Thompson (founder, YellaFella Entertainment and CTH Artistic Associate). Steve H. Broadnax III (Dominique Morisseau's Blood at the Root) serves as director and Brian Harlan Brooks (Motown: The Musical) as choreographer for this holiday presentation, which will take place in the Apollo's soundstage. The First Noel, commissioned by The Classical Theatre of Harlem and in association with Penn State Centre Stage, has been in development for three years and is intended to become a Harlem holiday classic.

The show, presented as part of Holidays at the Apollo, will play for 20 performances, in December, with preview performances on Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12 and the opening night performance on Sunday, December 13 at 7 p.m. The complete performance schedule is listed below.

This spectacular presentation follows three generations of a Harlem family affected by the tragic loss of a loved one. Time is slow to heal this family's wounds until an unexpected visit from Grandma, played by theater veteran Tina Fabrique (Ella, Ragtime, Bring In Da Noise, Bring In Da Funk) reveals some long-absent Christmas joy. This story is about how a community is healed, one family at a time, as everyday people do extraordinary things to help one another receive the gift of love during the holiday season. Principle actors includeNathaniel Stampley (The Lion King, The Gershwin's Porgy and Bess),

Soara-Joye Ross (Les Miserablés, Dance of the Vampires), Lizan Mitchell (An Issue of Blood, The Talk), and introducing Nia Bonita Caesar as Young Noel. The creative team is rounded out by Dan Robinson (scenic design), Rachel Dozier-Ezell (costume design), Alan C. Edwards (lighting design), Curtis Craig (sound design) and Andre Zachery (projection design).

"Using their unparalleled skill and talent, Webb and Thompson have approached the work in two ways: first, by reimagining beloved existing Christmas songs to invoke new life and meaning; and second, by creating dynamic new songs designed to become holiday favorites for a new generation," said Ty Jones, Producing Artistic Director, Classical Theatre of Harlem.

"We are thrilled to work with The Classical Theatre of Harlem this holiday season on The First Noel," said Mikki Shepard, Apollo Executive Producer. "This family oriented story is based in Harlem so it's fitting to present the musical here at the Apollo. I am looking forward to having our audience experience this musical winter wonderland, in the intimacy of the Apollo soundstage. These performances will surely be a memorable experience for the Theater and our audiences."