History:

In 1633, a solemn promise was made. The "Black Death" came to Oberammergau in 1632, and in one year, almost every family saw one or more members fall victim. At the cemetery, the Black Death-invalids promised to act the history of Jesus Christ every ten years. On the Pentecost in 1634, a stage was built at the cemetery constructed over the fresh graves of the victims, the towns people acted the first Play on a stage.

Where is Oberammergau?

Approximately sixty (60) miles south of Munich, you will find the town of Oberammergau. Nestled in the high alpine valley, the sprawling mountains and picturesque meadows that surround the town provide the setting for the Play. This quiet and charming village is not only known for their hospitality, but the dozens of woodcarving shops that encompass the streets. In addition to the Passion Play, you will have the opportunity to pass through the Romantic Road region which is full of beautiful old Churches. The most famous of all is the Michaelskapelle, part of the Convent located in Fraueninsel, near the Chiemsee.

About the Play:

The play depicts the story of Our Lord Jesus Christ's Passion, beginning with the entry into Jerusalem, and ending with the resurrection and transfiguration. Each performance starts at 2:30 P.M., and ends at approximately 10:30 P.M. Intermission / Dinner Break: Takes place half way through the play, and you are allotted three (3) hours. Language: The Play is performed in German, but you will receive a printed English translation Dates: May through September of 2020.

*Note: While we do NOT sell individual tickets, ALL of our pilgrimage packages include Tickets to the Passion Play!

Stage:

Performed in a giant open-air performance hall, it seats approximately 4,700 in attendance. Seats located towards the front of the stage, are located under the open roof, sitting under the night sky. The back end of the hall is covered by a ceiling. Performances are live, with the actors being joined by real animals.

What type of Passion Play Packages will be available?

Our Pilgrimages guarantee tickets to the show, along with Accommodations, Meals, Transfers, and Tours (as per itinerary). There are several types of pilgrimages that will be offered. For those that do not want a long trip, be offer pilgrimage to Oberammergau Three (3) Overnights).

Performance Schedule?

The Passion Play will be staged for a total of 102 Performances. There will be five (5) performances per week, taking place on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. (Theatre will be Closed on Monday and Wednesday)

Informational Schedule:

Ash Wednesday (March 6, 2019): The day known as the "Hair and Barterlass". From this day forth, all of the male performers begin to let their hair and beards grow in preparation for their roles in the play.
April of 2019: The leading actors (Jesus, Peter, Judas, Pontius Pilate, and Mary) will be announced. Also, 120 other smaller speaking roles, along with the player selection, and the some 2,000 contributors who will participate.
Fall of 2019: Rehearsals for the Passion Play begin.
May 16th, 2020: The opening of the first performance of the 42nd Annual Passion Play begins.
October 4th, 2020: The closing of the last performance of the 42nd Annual Passion Play begins.