Walled City Passion returns to Derry this Easter

The Walled City Passion will make its highly anticipated return to the City Walls this Easter, following last year’s hugely successful event in the heart of Derry.

The production is an innovative re-imagining of the Easter story, showcasing the message of Christ’s ministry around the final few days of his life. A variety of scenes will feature in the live public performances, including Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Taking place on Thursday 6th, Friday 7th and Saturday 8th April, the unique heritage of the city will be used as a backdrop for this unique depiction of the most famous story ever told, with the show commencing at St Columb’s Cathedral before traversing the Walls and concluding at the Guildhall.

Jonathan Burgess, writer of the Walled City Passion, explained the differences that this year’s adaptation would have from last year.

He said: “Last year we went all-out after coming back from Covid. The project had always been envisaged as a live performance on the Walls but became something entirely different when other media became involved.

“This year, we are making the story a little more traditional than what we staged last year and are taking it back to the vision of a live promenade production around the city centre.”

Archdeacon Robert Miller, one of the producers of the Walled City Passion, added: “The play is at the heart of the project which we intend to bring back to the Walls every year. We want to create a signature event that people will travel to see.

“However, the project isn’t just concerned with the show, there are other fringe events, talks and theatre workshops taking place which unpack the message of the Passion story and look at how this story is relevant in today’s world.”

The production will have a strong cast filled with local professionals, with an abundance of opportunities offered for emerging performers to gain experience in the industry. “We’re very committed to assisting in the rebuilding of the local arts scene, which was impacted so heavily during the public health crisis”, continued Archdeacon Miller.

The production will be staged at 12:30pm and 3:30pm on Thursday 6th, Friday 7th and Saturday 8th April, commencing at the Church of Ireland Diocesan Office.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at the Millennium Forum Box Office at www.millenniumforum.co.uk  or on 02871 264455.