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The popular Passion Play in the Smokies opened its 2009 fall season on Friday, Sept 10, and Saturday, Sept 11. The Play will run Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. through the closing weekend of Friday, October 23, and Saturday, October 24, with a special Sunday evening performance on September 27, also at 7:30 p.m. Pastors and one guest admitted free that evening.

There is pre-show concert each night of the Play from 6:30 p.m. until 7:15 p.m. featuring Eye2Sky, a Christian contemporary band, who are also members of the Play.

Now in its fifth season at the spectacular 1,200-seat outdoor Townsend Amphitheater, The Passion Play in the Smokies presents the greatest story ever told. Staged in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the Play faithfully shares with audiences the timeless story of Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection.

For producer and director Mark Pedro, this current version of the Passion story was born out of nostalgia. He had been the last actor to portray Christ in the area’s original production, which ended its run in 1992. The Townsend Amphitheater then sat dark and empty for years until Pedro rekindled interest in the show. "It was my feeling that we shouldn't let the amphitheater go to waste when we could use it for the glory of God and present the Gospel through drama, music and dance," Pedro said.

In that respect, The Passion Play in the Smokies is indeed a multisensory feast. The show’s array of sets, authentically colorful costumes, and dramatic lighting and sound design work together brilliantly to enhance the action. The production showcases the talents of gifted singers, dancers, and actors, including Pedro, who has reprised his role as Jesus Christ. The production is more than a drama—it is reverent and respectful of the message it presents.

One of the show’s unique elements is the inclusion of traditional Hebrew dance, performed by the internationally known Benote Tzion (Hebrew for “Daughters of Zion”). The Knoxville-based group uses a form of Israeli style praise dance to interpret some of the scenes with silk worship banners and flags. “The interpretive dance really gives a beautifully full understanding of the emotion behind the scene,” said Pedro.

He points out other another way in which this latest production differs from the site’s original Passion Play. “Many Passion dramas simply tell the story of Christ’s last week on earth,” Pedro said. “We begin with a short enactment of Abraham and Isaac and then segue into the infant Jesus being presented at the temple. We then move into His baptism and include many of His miracles and parables in addition to the more traditional scenes included in all Passion dramas.”

Of course, one common bond shared by productions past and present is the serene outdoor setting of the amphitheater, which is located at 329 Bethel Road in Townsend, only three miles from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The wooded hillsides surrounding the stage and seating area provide a scenic backdrop as audiences relax under star-filled skies.

Because the Play is primarily a ministry, the cost is very affordable for the entire family. Tickets are sold as suggested donations — $12 per adult and $5 for children. For groups of 10 or more, the suggested donation is $10 per person. A $1.00 discount will be given to those bringing a canned food item for the Baptist Food Pantry to benefit those in need in Blount County.

The Angel Food Cafe is a full concession stand, which is open before the production and at intermission. Sandwiches, soft drinks, ice cream, and other delectable items are offered. In the cooler fall evenings, hot chocolate is available. All proceeds from the concession stand go directly back into the ministry. All cast members and support personal are volunteers. No one is paid for their time or services. Crown of Thorns Ministries is a recognized non-profit organization.

The Passion Play in the Smokies is presented by Crown of Thorns Ministries in cooperation with the Chilhowee Baptist Association. Supporting the Play are the following: Life 88.3 FM, Love 89.1 FM, WRJZ Joy 620 AM, and CTN (WVLR DT48), Christian Television Network.

For more information on schedules and tickets, call 865-448-3505 or go online to www.passionplayinthesmokies.org <http://www.passionplayinthesmokies.org/> .