CAROLS IN COLOR – 32ND ANNIVERSARY SEASON: DECEMBER 2023
HISTORY TICKETS AVAILABLE SEPTEMBER 2023!
In December of 1992, a Philadelphia holiday tradition was born. Director, choreographer, vocal coach and arranger Leon Evans produced Carols in Color. Leon Evans was well respected in Philadelphia for his many talents. Carols in Color is one of his many treasures left behind that bring joy, exhilaration and a “stirring of the soul” to all that experience this spectacular production. This dance & musical treasure continues under the artistic direction of Shawn-Lamere Williams, the executive direction of Sheila A. Ward. and the musical direction of Omar-Frederick Pratt.
Carols in Color is retelling of the Gospel according to St. Matthew. Carols in Color features some of Philadelphia’s most renown vocalists whom Leon Evans worked with professionally. This dance musical also features the dance company founded by Leon Evans, Eleone Dance Theatre.
Carols in Color is based on “Black Nativity” by Langston Hughes and a 1960’s musical adaptation by Vinette Carrol. Like “Black Nativity,” Carols in Color is joyous and uplifting with a more contemporary and stimulating structure, rich in American dance theatre.
This is a refreshing dance and music holiday production audiences crave. It is an alternative to the traditional Nutcracker, A Christmas Carol and other ballets that have become synonymous with the holiday season. This cross-culturally, musically-varied celebration brings all audiences to their feet regardless of their religious or cultural background.
PRAISE
“Carols in Color shimmers with energy, soul and jubilance”
The Philadelphia Weekly
“This rendition of Nativity is total theater”
Dance Magazine
“Carols in Color has become a Regional holiday tradition,
and it’s hard to imagine a more rousing and uplifting one”
Miriam Seidel – The Philadelphia Inquirer
“Carols in Color is a fine revival, combining the deep spirituality of African American Christian tradition with accessible entertainment”
Bing J. Mark – The Philadelphia Inquirer
“Carols in Color shimmers with energy, soul and jubilance”
The Philadelphia Weekly
Come Dance With Us
Eleone dancers provide not just a dance performance, but a dance “experience” that inspires and energizes audiences of all ages. The company has a diverse repertoire of works that are contemporary modern, spiritual, rhythm and blues, African as well as hip-hop in theme.
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