Final Curtain Falls on Trafalgar Square's Passion of Jesus After 15 Years
Wintershall returned to Trafalgar Square on Good Friday for its annual performance of the Passion of Jesus, marking an impressive 15-year legacy. However, this year's show was bittersweet as it served as the final installment of the beloved production. The decision to end the run was forced by escalating costs and complex logistics, but the team ensured the final show went on with grandeur and emotion.
A Massive Production with Moving Parts
The scale of the production was immense, involving 100 dedicated volunteers and actors, alongside a unique cast of animals including one donkey, two horses, and 25 homing pigeons. Support roles were crucial, with one sign language expert, 15 first aiders, and 10 broadcast crew members ensuring smooth operations. At the heart of it all was Jesus, portrayed by Peter Bergin, who received makeup touch-ups from the mother-and-daughter team of Sarah and Angela Pickford.
Behind the Scenes and Audience Impact
During breaks between the two performances, cast members grabbed lunch, while Martha Allan, who played the leper girl, sought shelter from the rain during final rehearsals. The performances were expected to draw approximately 20,000 people, with emotional audience members visibly moved by the portrayal. Backstage, assistant stage manager CJ Wright monitored the show, and director Ashley Herman oversaw the intricate details.
Preparation included Bergin having his 'wounds' made up in the crypt of St Martin-in-the-Fields church before taking the stage. A huge LED screen broadcast the performance live on Facebook, with replays available on YouTube, extending the reach beyond the physical crowd. In a poignant moment, Jesus made his way up the road to reappear after rising, symbolizing the production's themes.
Celebration and Farewell
At the end of the performance, Wintershall's producer, Charlotte de Klee, celebrated the successful run, and the cast and crew gathered for a last team photo. Sam the Donkey even attended a team meeting during final rehearsals, highlighting the communal effort. This final curtain call at Trafalgar Square not only honored 15 years of artistic dedication but also left a lasting impact on London's cultural and religious landscape.
