Gripped by war, poverty and plague, the
villagers of Oberammergau, in Bavaria, southern Germany vowed to put
on a 'passion play' every ten years…
That was back in 1633. They survived, and
performed the first Oberammergau Passion Play in 1634. Ever since,
their descendants have carried out that pledge.For the past four
centuries the tradition has continued, every ten years. Only
villagers have been allowed to take part. And that is what will
happen yet again in 2010.
They devote a year of their lives to re-enacting
the life, death and resurrection of Christ.All performers are laymen
and pursue their usual careers as wood carvers, house wives and so
forth...In real life for instance Jesus is a psychologist and Mary
Magdalene works as a flight attendant.
Like everyone else in the village, 'Jesus' and
'Mary' are ordinary people. By taking on these roles, they are
fulfilling the promise to God made by their ancestors, celebrating
their faith and sharing it with the world...
Sample Itinerary:
