First Parish Brings "Passion" To The Stage

"First Parish Brings "Passion" To The Stage
written by Bill Donovan
The Wakefield Observer
Mar. 19 2008

Wakefield - Director and script writer Pamela Abkarian is thrilled about her new play, “A Passion for the Christ,” to be performed Thursday and Friday, March 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. at the First Parish Congregational Church of Wakefield. Live music, communion and refreshments will be provided at these free church events.

“I’m hoping it will attract not only those who attend service on a weekly basis, but people from the community as well who wouldn’t normally attend,” Abkarian said. “It’s an emotional and powerful play; I’m excited to see how it will go.”

“A Passion for the Christ” delves into the aftermath of Jesus’ death on Good Friday. Actors from the church community take up the roles of biblical figures such as Mary Magdalene, Judas, Pilate, and Mother Mary. Each character, whether friend or foe, presents their opinion of Christ to the audience as the play goes on. The cast is made up of local parishioners ranging in age from their early-20s to mid-60s.

“In one scene, Disciple John comforts Mother Mary as she remembers Jesus’ last moments on the cross,” Abkarian said. “You will hear from Mary Magdalene, Peter, Martha and Lazarus. In another scene, three disciples who huddle in the upper room the night after Jesus’ crucifixion provide a glimpse into the hearts of grief-stricken friends. And there is so much more.”

The First Parish Congregational Church has a long and storied tradition with passion plays. A trip to Oberammergau, Germany in 1980 inspired Wakefield churchgoers to create a production, which celebrated the life and death of Jesus. Horace Hylan wrote the first version of the production and served as director with Abkarian working behind the scenes as an assistant.

Over time, scenes have been added as well as sound and lighting. Abkarian, a graduate of Salem State College, has served as director for the past six years.

“This production serves as great outreach for the church,” commented Abkarian. “My actors always do a great job; I’m very proud of them. Acting is a lot of fun but harder than most people would think.”

In the past, First Parish Congregational has brought in much of the community with its productions. “We’ve been fortunate to have approximately 500 people attend each year for our First Parish’s passion play and we are hoping to perform for at least that many this year,” said Barbara Flynn of First Parish Congregational.