Oberammergau Passion Play 2010

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. November 10, 2009

NOVEMBER 9, 2009 - 1633 : The Plague has a firm grip on Bavaria. The deadly disease has spread to Oberammergau and is taking its toll of the villagers. The remaining inhabitants make a vow that every 10th year they will perform the story of the events of the last days, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

For 375 years with great pride, dignity, devotion and passion they have kept their word and performed their play. Only people born in the village or who have lived there for at least 20 years are allowed to take part.
Out of the 5200 or so inhabitants about 2500 will be involved in some way with the production, whether as front of house, as seamstresses, stage hands, musicians or performers on stage. It is a true community achievement. The year before the actual performance the villagers wishing to act gather outside the theatre and stand anxiously watching the names for the lead roles being chalked onto a board. Starting on Ash Wednesday of the previous year men and women grow their hair, and men their beards, as no wigs or false beards are allowed.

2010 : Against the impressive backdrop of the Ammergau Alps in a special, purpose-built theatre, seating some 4,700 spectators, the 41st Oberammergau Passion Play will take place between 15 May and 3 October. The performance starts at 14.30 and including a three-hour break for dinner, finishes at 22.30.

Whilst the audience and symphony-size orchestra is undercover the actors perform on a stage open to the elements. For all participants it is an exhausting five months.

The 41st production under the direction of Christian Stückl will see a revised text, new stage designs and music along with new costumes (made in the village).

Facts at a glance:

• The Oberammergau Passion Play 2010 May 15 - October 3 2010
• 102 performances (each lasts approx. 5 hours, from 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm and from 8:00 pm - 10:30 pm, with a 3-hour dinner break)
• Packages for 1 or 2 night arrangements are available on the website www.oberammergau- passion.com under “How to book”.
• Flight connections to Munich are available from all major airports. Distance Munich - Oberammergau: 90 km/55 miles Discover the breathtaking surrounding area of Oberammergau during your stay.

For more information visit www.ammergauer-alpen.de as well as www.oberammergau- passion.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Mike Adams [email protected] ++49 (0)6201 60208-18