In the mid-1950s, Langstaff brought together his multiple talents to create the Christmas Revels, a theatrical event that combined dance, song, and drama. For inspiration, he drew from pre-Christian celebrations of the solstice, incorporating the death and re-birth themes, and adding a carnival-like atmosphere. But while Langstaff's Revels reminded audiences of the season's origins, he also added a unique twist. Christ, whose death and rebirth mirrored many pagan myths, would also be woven into the Revels as the Lord of the Dance. The first performance of the Christmas Revels took place at New York City's Town Hall on December 29, 1957. While the event lost money, Langstaff's second performance at the Lisner Auditorium in Washington, D.C. took place before a sold-out crowd. In 1971 Langstaff and his daughter revived the Christmas Revels at Sanders Theatre in Cambridge, Massachusetts, establishing the production as an annual affair. Over time, the Christmas Revels would incorporate new traditions and receive simultaneous productions throughout the United States. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., Rovi
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Pretty Sally |
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Mango Walk |
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Botany Bay |