In 1633 the villagers of Oberammergau in Germany pledged to perform a play every 10 years about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, should they be spared further ravaging by the plague. That promise saw the first play performed in 1634 and nearly 400 years later we are about to witness the 42nd production when the next play commences between May 16 – October 4, 2020.
Only people born and raised in the village, or who have lived there 20 years, are allowed to accept roles in the play. Originally only men were allowed to act in the play but over the years, as society’s norms have changed, so have the cast members which now includes women, children and even members of religious faiths other than Christian.
The setting of the play is outdoors with large viewing stands and open-air stages built to give crowds opportunity to see the action which spills across the town square. The intention is to make you feel that you are there in the actual moment.
Rain or shine, the play goes on. So expect to see the actors carry on, even in torrential downpours – a crucifixion, after all, cannot wait for the weather.
Performers are selected about a year in advance and the duration of the play lasts about 5 hours with a meal break in the middle. With a total of about 102 performances across 5 months, the over 2000 actors and technicians are taxed to their physical limits. Because of the exhausting schedule, major roles are often shared between two or more actors to give each time to recuperate.
The play is in 16 acts, focusing primarily on the life of Jesus, juxtaposed with other poignant stories of the Bible (Adam and Eve, Moses, Joseph, for example), ending with the resurrection of Christ.
About half a million visitors are expected to attend in 2020. Tickets and tours including the play are already being put on the market. Collette includes the play as part of several other tour packages.
If you don’t see this amazing spectacle in 2020, you’ll have to wait another decade for the next one to come along.
Classic Danube River Cruise with Oberammergau Passion Play, starting at $6599
10-11 days, 22-24 meals
Discover Switzerland Austria & Bavaria with Oberammergau Passion Play, starting at $4549
10-11 days, 14-16 meals
These trips and others are available from Collette. Contact your travel agent or call Collette at 1-800-468-5955.
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