Easter Passion Play Fundraiser

Yesterday I attended a fundraiser at the Nueva Posada for the annual Easter Passion Play in Ajijic.  I had the pleasure of seeing the Play performed a couple of years ago and was so impressed and moved by the realism of the performance.  A lot of effort and expense goes into producing it so a dedicated bunch of people put on a fundraiser in February to help raise the money needed.  The excellent meal was prepared and served by the actors and an art auction followed.

I found this video on YouTube which does a pretty good job of capturing the event which takes place each year on Good Friday.

http://youtu.be/pVjlPqxgjNM

From “Focus on Mexico”

Originally conceived in 1980 by Eduardo Ramos, Martha Elva Romero and Abdulia Zamora, the Ajijic Passion Play has been recreated year after year thanks to a loose-knit lay group that works independently but in cooperation with the local church. Now in its 25th year, the Via Crucis has become a huge undertaking that involves more than 200 active participants who take acting roles or assist with props, logistics and fund raising.
An intensive schedule of rehearsals and related preparations runs throughout Lent. While some of the amateur players have represented the same characters for a decade or more, new performers join the production every year, usually starting with non-speaking roles such as Roman soldiers.
Local businesses chip in by helping supply materials while other production costs are covered by benefits, including regular Sunday evening offerings of pozole (pork and hominy stew) dished out by volunteers at the village plaza. Families add color to street processions by adorning home exteriors with tissue paper, palm frond and flower arches and carpets of fresh alfalfa.
Episodes to be represented by the Pasion de Cristo players will span all next week, starting with a Palm Sunday procession and culminating with a simulated Crucifixion Good Friday. The aim of the events is to preserve a tradition of palpable religious instruction rather than provide entertainment. The respectful attendance of the general public is welcome.
The Good Friday presentation in the church atrium usually draws a crowd that assembles early in the morning. Spectators should wear hats and light clothing, bring drinking water and keep umbrellas closed during scenes.