What is the definition of a Passion Play?
A Passion Play tells the Easter story of the last week of Jesus’ life, his death and his resurrection. Below is the dictionary definition of a Passion Play:
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a Passion Play is a play representing scenes connected with Jesus’ suffering and crucifixion.
According to Britannica Dictionary, it is a play about the suffering and death of Jesus Christ.
According to Wikipedia, a Passion Play can also be an Easter pageant and provides a dramatic presentation depicting the Passion of Jesus Christ, his trial, suffering and death.
Although a Passion Play’s definition is easy to find in the dictionary, it is not always easy to fully capture what a Passion Play really is because you need to experience it for yourself to truly understand it.
Many people experience the Easter story for themselves by watching a free live performance in their city centre. Other people experience the story of Easter by joining the large volunteer casts and taking part in the live performances for themselves.
Many Passion Plays tell the story of Jesus, his love and forgiveness, in a unique way for each different local community, with the Easter story adapted to the specific history and needs of the specific community.
Historically, Passion Plays were considered part of a Catholic tradition because they were performed during the Corpus Christi festivals. Today, however, Passion Plays do not belong to any particular group but are based on the Bible’s account freely available for everyone to understand and experience for themselves.
There is no better way to experience the Easter story than by watching a Passion Play yourself! Find a play near you this coming Easter. Image courtesy of Keith Blundy | aegies.com
