It was back in 1996 when Pat La Manna OAM, a Melbourne Philanthropist, first had an inspiration which was the catalyst for initiating the first step in what was to become one of the most amazing and rewarding experiences for audiences and actors from all walks of life and of all denominations.

The task ahead was enormous, but, somehow within a few months, all the pieces seemed to fall into place as if by divine intervention. As a result, the 1st Passion Play enactment took place successfully in 1997. That was the beginning of what has become a much- awaited annual event.

Each year since then, the Passion of Jesus Christ has been enacted in Melbourne by some very dedicated volunteers. Not the usual and traditional reference to the Passion that is a part of Holy Week within the churches of most religious denominations, but, a real scene by scene representation of the Ministry of Jesus by real people in real, natural surroundings.

Two thousand years ago in a land ruled by Romans, a new prophet was baptised and a religious movement was formed. Generations have followed the story of Christ's Passion. It all began in 1633 when the mountain village of Oberammergau, Germany, vowed to perform the "Passions-Tragedie" every ten years if their people were spared from the plague.

Now, more than three centuries later, The Melbourne Passion Play re-enacts the journey of Jesus Christ’s life: the triumphs, the trials, the devotion and the betrayal. Performed by a cast of approximately 60 volunteers, the Melbourne Passion Play reveals how one man’s life changed the lives of millions; the triumphs, the trials, the devotion and the betrayal.

The intention is to stage the performances every year in alternate locations where the natural settings become part of the theatrical scenery. It’s within this ambience that a group of very committed people will meet for Sunday rehearsals just prior to Easter to prepare for what then becomes a most spiritual and moving experience.

Audience response has been more than just positive, it’s been heartfelt. As they move with the actors from scene to scene literally following in Christ’s footsteps, they become involved not just with the physical and visual impact of the event, but also with the pure inspiration that the enactment of the Play seems to have on them.

The Play encourages the involvement of people from all walks of life in providing them with an opportunity to share in a project which encourages camaraderie and faithful interaction. It also facilitates the participation of various and differing community organizations of diverse cultural backgrounds, enabling them to more fully understand and appreciate the benefits of working together as a network of multicultural volunteers.

The Melbourne Passion Play celebrates the origin of Easter. It is professionally produced and directed. The event is free of charge and performed on Palm Sunday and Good Friday. It is professionally produced and directed. The event is free of charge and performed on PALM SUNDAY at 1.30pm and GOOD FRIDAY at 10.00am each year.

Everyone is welcome. This year, the Play will be performed at the Holy Cross Centre, 207 Serpells Road in Templestowe. There is also free parking. Join the thousands of people who have already witnessed the Play.