Passion Play
The Ministers’ Fraternal instigated an “Easter Passion Play” in Allan St Kyabram in 1992 to make a statement about the Easter Story.
Onlookers were invited to journey with Christ through his conviction and crucifixion.
A procession was led from St David’s Presbyterian Church in Church St on Easter Saturday morning, winding its way along Allan St to a stage set up in front of the National Bank.
Mrs Maria Di Petta was the producer and director of the Passion Play and continued to do so up until 1999.
The production of the Passion Play became bigger and better each year with elaborate and authentic costumes.
In the 1990s the stage setting was either in front of the National Bank or Rodney Chambers. The street was crowded each year with spectators.
The Chamber of Commerce voiced its objection to Allan St being closed on Easter Saturday morning, so in 2000 the play was relocated to Union St for the next four years.
In 2004 the Kyabram Churches chose not to perform the traditional Passion Play in celebration of Easter, but instead celebrate Easter with free events and special activities from the
Wednesday evening until Sunday morning during the Easter season.
These events were supported by more than 2500 locals.
A massive 100 ft x 40 ft tent was erected in the Memorial Gardens and all townspeople were invited to attend.
The Easter celebrations were considered to be extra special as all churches in Kyabram were coming together, which was considered quite unique at the time.
— Compiled by Eileen Sullivan from the files of the Kyabram Free Press