(l to r) Stephen Waldschmidt (Jesus), Tim Hildebrand (Matthew) and Mary Magdalene (Lennette Randall). 

Drumheller, Alberta – “It’s been an amazing year so far for the Canadian Passion Play,”

says Artistic Director Randall Wiebe. “We’ve made a number of physical changes to the grounds and

infrastructure.  We’ve also made substantial enhancements to the script as well as many of the scenes.

When you include Bill Hamm’s musical arrangements with the choir, it all adds up to what we believe

will be our best Passion Play performance ever. Thankfully, amidst all of these changes, we've kept our core

group of leading actors intact.”

“In 2009 we took a huge risk in showcasing two narrators Matthew (Saskatoon actor/playwright,

Tim Hildebrand) and Mary Magdalene (British/African actress Lennette Randall). Their performances

and audience feedback were exceptional, so we decided to repeat it again this year. Also returning

(his 3rd season) as Jesus is Strathmore’s Stephen Waldschmidt who has grown into his role with

an understanding and passion that is a joy to watch.  We also welcome back to the fold, David Snider

who played Jesus in 2007.  David who has played the lead role in several recent summer musicals

at Rosebud Theatre will portray Sadduk, one of the top Pharisees in Jerusalem.  He will also be the

understudy for both Jesus and Matthew. David is a consummate professional actor who makes us

all better.”

Mary Magdalene (Lennette Randall)

"2010 is a special year for Passion Plays,” explains Wiebe. “Many North Americans will be travelling

to Oberammergau, Germany to see that version of the Passion Play. Oberammergau puts on a

wonderful play every 10 years. However, we have had many patrons tell us they have seen the

Oberammergau version and they prefer ours – because it is so authentic - visually and geographically.

That’s quite a compliment.  And, what many people fail to realize is that we have created this amazing

play about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ every summer for the past 16 years. People in

Alberta, western Canada and North America don’t need to travel to Germany when they have the most

authentic Passion Play in their own back yard.  The Canadian Badlands Passion Play includes some

200 actors and animals in a 30-acre natural badlands canyon bowl whose stark and dramatic geographical

surroundings and acoustics mirror those of ancient Israel.  You just can't beat that combination for a

Passion Play.”

Jesus falls while carrying the cross.

Canadian Badlands Passion Play Show Dates

The 2010 Canadian Badlands Passion Play’s three-hour performances will be conducted on the following dates/times.

Friday July 9          6:00 PM                               Sunday July 11          3:00 PM

Saturday July 10    6:00 PM                               Saturday July 17        3:00 PM

Friday July 16        6:00 PM                               Sunday July 18          3:00 PM

Ticket Prices range from Children 6+ ($17-$29), Students 13-18 ($25-$37), Seniors 65+ ($27-$39)

and Adults ($32-$44).  Seating is assigned and available in four categories based on proximity to the set

and actors.  Reservations are encouraged and can be purchased securely online www.canadianpassionplay.com

Jesus on the cross.