The performance of the Passion of Christ that closed the Lent term this year was executed by a mature and talented Sixth Form year group. The play recalls the final days of Jesus’ life- from the turning of tables in the temple on Palm Sunday, to his crucifixion just five days later on Good Friday- and all the insidious plotting, political manoeuvring and betrayal that facilitated Jesus’ downfall. One of the most moving stories of all time, its telling requires thoughtfulness and intensity, both counts on which the Sixth Form this year undoubtedly delivered.
The play was headed up by a strong and convincing Jesus, whose authority lay not in his anger and power, but in a more quiet delivery betraying the acceptance and tiredness of a man aware of the elements working against him. Thus rejecting the qualities of bitterness and resentment which could be attributed to the betrayed Jesus, the warmth and gentle nature of the character invited an even greater sympathy for his eventual demise. Sympathy too may have been given by the audience to the traitor Judas, whose childish innocence was concealed by bold arrogance in this year’s play. Suggestions of ignorance of the consequences of his actions served well to inspire pity for his devastating naiveté. Conversely, the audience will have been far less forgiving to the character of Caiaphas, whose venomous nature diffused throughout the story to create an atmosphere of unease. Calculating and determined, he had a cold kind of presence which perfectly captured the influence and role he had in the dissembling of a man of such stature.
Performing for the final time on the Hinsley Hall stage, the Sixth Form continued their excellent track record as their drama careers at St John’s come to a gradual close. We have high hopes both for the much-anticipated Leavers’ plays and for contributions to senior school theatre next year and beyond.
You can see a full gallery of images from the play here:
