About

The Andrews University Passion Play has become a cherished tradition among the local community, faculty, staff and students. The interactive experience combines the elements of drama, music and community involvement to celebrate Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection in a powerful way.

History
Plans for the inaugural Passion Play began in the fall of 2002 after campus leadership was inspired to bring the worldwide tradition of a dramatization of the Last Supper, Christ’s crucifixion, and resurrection to Andrews University’s campus. Since the first production, which took place in 2003, the Passion Play has become an integral part of the campus culture.

Each year, hundreds of students, staff, faculty and community members volunteer for this production. They work hard to include fresh elements and utilize local creative talent. For example, during the 2012 Passion Play, members of the Andrews University Gymnics team as well as other students choreographed the final resurrection scene set to an arrangement by music major Joshua Goines of “Revelation Song.” The Andrews University Symphony Orchestra provided the instrumentation for the song, which was sung by communication student Emily Ferguson.

This Year
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Passion Play and due to a growing audience, rotations will be smaller in order to create a more intimate experience for attendees. Roman Guards will be present at different checkpoints to ensure guests are traveling with their assigned tribe.

The indoor/outdoor walk-through experience begins at Pioneer Memorial Church where guests may choose an experience in English or Spanish. After a short video welcome and the opening scene of Simon's Feast, attendees travel across campus following Jesus and His disciples as they re-enact the Triumphal Entry at an energetic marketplace with live animals. Then, guests will watch Judas’ heartbreaking betrayal at the Last Supper, and celebrate with a host of angels as the Savior emerges victorious from the tomb in the final scene at Johnson Gym.

Free refreshments will be available at the hospitality tent sponsored by Pioneer Memorial Church. Visitors may take a moment to reflect with one of the hospitality team members on hand before boarding a free shuttle back to the main event parking areas.

Thank you
We thank you for joining us this year for the Andrews University Passion Play and it is our prayer that you witness Christ’s passion, experience His love, and are moved to follow Him.