Christmas Gift! is a new musical revue that tells the story of a forgotten holiday gift exchange tradition in the African American community.

With music and lyrics by American songwriter Nolan Williams, Jr., Christmas Gift! offers a powerful and entertaining look at this lost story with present-day interpretations of what history can teach us. Told through narrative, poetry, song and dance, this family-friendly celebration explores the themes of love and selfless giving, universal messages that will resonate with audiences of all kinds.

With new musical numbers added since its debut at the Clarice Smith Center last season, this is a holiday show that makes a difference.

Bring a gift

We are excited to offer you the opportunity to support our community partners as you attend Christmas Gift!

Representatives from Ella's Kids and the Embry Center will be onsite for each Christmas Gift! performance to welcome any and all contributions. The following items are desperately needed and welcomed:

• Blankets
• Books
• Hats
• Gloves
• Scarves

About Ella's Kids and the Embry Center

Ella’s Kids and the Embry Center for Family Life both work in tandem with under privileged youth while serving families throughout the greater Washington Metropolitan area. Their constituencies include, but are not limited to, homeless youth and low-income families that might otherwise be bound by poverty, unemployment or under-employment and the lack of education. With the foreknowledge that breaking the cycle of poverty is the only way to ensure that the next generation is able to march forward with the hope and promise of a brighter future, these partners have forged ahead.

This performance is sponsored in part by the generous support of The Gazette & The Star.