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Nestled in the scenic hills of Eureka Springs is a hidden gem that surprises and captivates visitors from all walks of life. “The Great Passion Play,” an outdoor drama of grand proportions, has been part of the community for nearly six decades, offering a unique cultural and historical experience that one might not expect to find in this corner of the world. If you’re looking for a different, meaningful and creative way to invite someone to share your faith story, this is a destination you won’t want to miss.
A Story Woven into the Ozark Landscape
The story of The Great Passion Play began in 1968, but its roots trace back to the mid-1960s with the construction of the Christ of the Ozarks statue in 1965. This iconic landmark stands 67 feet tall, and during construction, the natural amphitheater formed by the surrounding hills became evident. This fortunate discovery sparked the idea for an outdoor drama that would bring the story of Jesus to life. What started as an idea has become a continuous production, running annually, even through challenges like COVID-19. It’s a testament to the dedication and passion of the people who preserve this tradition and their ability to adapt in sharing their faith story.
The Heart of the Story
The Great Passion Play tells a powerful narrative that encompasses key moments in the life and teachings of Jesus. Beginning with the resurrection of Lazarus from John 11, the story progresses through Jesus’ ministry, the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension, concluding with the challenges from Acts 1 to spread the “Good News.” The play draws its script directly from scripture, weaving in elements from various biblical texts to provide a rich and contextual experience. It’s not merely a performance; it’s an immersive journey designed to engage the audience and bring these ancient stories into the present. The play seeks to help people understand the historical context and the human stories within the narrative.
The goal is never to seek a standing ovation at the show’s end. Instead, it is to evoke a reflective response where audience members leave changed, contemplative and eager to alter how they perceive and interact with the world. Something transformative occurs when the stories we read become tactile and interactive- when the letters lift off the page and transform into a genuine experience before us.
What’s New and Exciting for 2025?
This year, The Great Passion Play unveils a new musical composition recorded with the Budapest Scoring Orchestra. This Hungary-based orchestra has composed music for Hollywood films such as “Mission: Impossible,” “Rambo,” “A Christmas Carol,” “Cobra Kai,” and more. Imagine the impact of a cinematic-style score infused with Middle Eastern instrumentation, enhancing the emotional depth of the story of Jesus.
New sound changes will offer an immersive audio experience featuring Dolby Atmos and upgraded speaker systems, promising to be unlike anything before. Instrumentalists such as Pedro Eustache, a Venezuelan flutist from the Oscar-winning film Dune, and others who performed for “Gladiator” and “The Passion of the Christ” will enhance this robust musical experience that requires surround sound. Experience the innovative audio of 15 IMAX theater screens! These specialty instrument performers will add a layer of artistry to the 2025 season.
To align with the new experiential sound, a specialized lighting director and sound engineer arrived on-site to establish the technical components of the show. Adopting a mindset akin to a film production team, these artists crafted a technical experience that considers the script and stage acting, narrating a story through sound. Whether you’ve seen the play before or are visiting for the first time, 2025 is the year to experience it in a completely new way.
Beyond the Play: Exploring the Grounds
The Great Passion Play site is more than just a theater; it is a destination offering a variety of biblically related attractions. While many of these attractions are open year-round, their activity intensifies on show days, beginning at 9 a.m. when the gift shop opens. Some attendees arrive midmorning to start their experience, take a break for lunch and return afterward. Depending on your arrival time, you can extend your visit over two days, allowing you to explore the additional sites without feeling rushed.
- Holy Land Tour: Immerse yourself in the biblical narrative, guided by knowledgeable actors who bring the stories and settings to life. The tour can take up to several hours depending on how many of the characters, from Levitical priests to craftsmen to Jesus, you wish to encounter. Explore a replica of a first-century town, the stable and manger where Jesus was born or experience the upper room.
- Museum of the Bible: Discover rare and significant artifacts, including a first edition of the King James Bible, and explore the history and impact of scripture.
- Art and History Museums: Broaden your cultural perspective through collections of diverse art and historical artifacts.
- Christ of the Ozarks Statue: Admire the iconic statue that rises 67 feet tall as a testament to faith.
- Cross Prayer Garden: Discover a peaceful space for contemplation and reflection within a serene garden. Last year, visitors submitted almost 10,000 prayer requests that were prayed for by a dedicated volunteer team.
- Church in the Grove: Experience the architectural and spiritual heritage of the region within a historic church building from the turn of the century.
- Section of the Berlin Wall: Witness a poignant reminder of the triumph of hope over division with a section of the historic Berlin Wall.
- Scenic Trails: Connect with nature and enjoy the picturesque landscape along miles of scenic trails linked to the grander NWA Greenway system. Who wouldn’t want to take the double black diamond downhill path on Armageddon?!?
- Youth Group Mission Trips and Weekend Experiences: Promote spiritual growth, service, and community involvement through immersive mission trips and weekend activities.
Events occur throughout the year, from car shows to trail runs, creating a vibrant multi-use community space. Groups are encouraged to attend. If your group has 15 or more people, advanced reservations are advised.
An Invitation Awaits
The Great Passion Play offers a unique opportunity to reflect, learn and be inspired. It’s a place where history and scripture come to life, art and faith intersect, and the natural beauty of the Ozarks enhances the experience. Whether captivated by the story, the music, the history or the community, you will discover something meaningful here. Plan your visit for the 2025 season.
The Great Passion Play
935 Passion Play Rd, Eureka Springs
Website | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube
Shows begin with special performances on Good Friday and Saturday, April 18 and 19.
Special season opening May 2 & 3
Regular season: Memorial Day Weekend through early Nov.
Special Events | Christmas Lights | Stay on-site
Any images used in the story were provided by The Great Passion Play and taken by photographer Glen Couvillion.
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