CHURCH members and residents of the Bere peninsula are breaking new ground by performing a Passion Play over four days during Holy Week. The original idea came from the Rector, the Rev Nick Law, who made a passing comment that he would like to see a Passion Play performed. A member of the congregation at St Andrew's Church in Bere Ferrers, Christine Fine, was inspired to follow this up. As a result the play will be performed as part of this year's 750th anniversary celebrations of the appointment of the first rector for the parish of Bere Ferrers with Bere Alston. Christine wrote the script, adapted from that of the famous Oberammergau play, and there are 47 in the cast with additional people helping with background tasks such as costumes, props, advertising and the technical side. Christine said: 'It is a real community event. Although the event will take place in Bere Ferrers, it involves people from the whole peninsula, including Bere Alston and Weir Quay, as well as members of both Church of England churches and Bere Alston United Church. 'It is a really big event for the village. Lots of people who don't normally come to church are taking part and being involved. 'For example, someone has allowed one of her rooms to be used as a permanent sewing room for the costumes, others are helping with kitchen chores at the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday and a local business has supplied rolls of carpet.' The four-part play is being directed by Carolyn Gentle from Bere Alston, assisted by Christine, and rehearsals have been taking place three times a week since January. It is hoped a large number of people will go to Bere Ferrers to watch the play and participate. Part of the idea is that those attending become involved in the action. A large crowd, including children, is needed on Palm Sunday — March 16 — to process from the church hall to the quay and then to the church, waving palm branches and shouting 'Hosanna'. Biblical 'tunic' attire is optional, but would be welcomed. Palm Sunday is the first event, with people meeting at the church hall at 10.20am to join in the procession or going straight to the quay. The second, with the Last Supper and then the arrest of Jesus, will be at 7pm on Maundy Thursday. A lamb casserole is being provided for the supper and tickets are available from Margaret Willmott on 840380. If sufficient people wish to attend this the public may also be invited to the dress rehearsal the previous day. On Good Friday the trial and Crucifixion will take place in St Andrew's Church at 2pm, and on Easter Sunday the portrayal of the resurrection will precede a short service at 11am. Further details are available from Christine Fine on 01822 841337.
