Badlands Passion Play marking its 150th performance in July
DRUMHELLER The Canadian Badlands Passion Play is celebrating both its 150th performance and its 24th year of operation this season with bold new moves.
With the stunning badlands vista and Canada’s largest outdoor theatre stage as its natural canvas, the theatre company is painting an epic new portrayal of the life of Christ.
“This year we are pulling out all the stops to bring a fresh perspective to the story based on the Gospel of Luke,” says Executive Director Vance Neudorf. “Our costume department has created over 300 new costumes. The scenic arts team has built striking new set pieces and our fivemember team of directors has utilized an innovative approach that will take our audience inside the world of the character’s mind on stage through the process of voice-overs.”
This season, Canadian film and stage actor, Giovanni Mocibob, is assuming the role of Jesus.
According to artistic director Royal Sproule, “We’ve never had a Jesus quite like this before. Giovanni’s portrayal of Jesus brings an intriguing perspective to the traditional story.” Mocibob was recently featured in the critically-acclaimed film about human trafficking called “She Has A Name.”
Nine performances are scheduled from July 7-23; the 150th performance takes place on July 9. At that special commemorative performance, there will be a preshow party in the big shade tent featuring free birthday cake and live music by local Alberta singing duo, Lewis & Royal, with special guest fiddler, Keith Hamm.
Tickets to any of the nine shows from July 7-23 are available online at www.canadianpassionplay.com or by calling 403-823-2001.
Each Friday performance is ‘Seniors Day’ with special upgrades and offers.
To help celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, the Badlands Amphitheatre is also hosting a huge concert series on Aug. 25 and 26 boasting a proudly Canadian focus. Randy Bachman, Hey Romeo and Charlie Major will all perform during the weekend, along with U.S. favourite, John Michael Montgomery. Tickets are available at www.badlandsamp.com.