The Story of Easter in Pantomime
The Story of Easter in Pantomime
"Wait, this guy does a COMEDY program about the death of CHRIST?"
Yes, he does...and your congregation is going to love it!
In "The Passion," the death and resurrection of Jesus is ALWAYS treated with complete reverence and the utmost respect. Dan would NEVER make fun of Christ's sacrifice for us. However, the humans around him are fair game.
Dan has always considered the Story of Easter to be the most joyous message in the world. Why shouldn't it be FUN?
Audiences seem to agree. Since creating "The Passion" in 1993, this particular pantomime has received more standing ovations than any of Dan's other programs. That's not a tribute to his talent, but simply an indication of the powerful way in which the Holy Spirit has used this program over the years.
"The Passion" has been presented in various formats for worship services, Lenten services, community observances, theatrical comedy concerts and even assemblies at Christian high schools. Dan's unique combination of comic insight and powerful message make this program one that EVERYONE will appreciate...and enjoy.
It begins with some of Dan's award-winning Gospel Magic to set the comic tone and message for the program. THIS year, Dan even plans to trot out his NEW character of "The Little Old Man" to do the magical opening.
Before beginning the pantomime segment, Dan allows the audience a behind-the-scenes peek as he begins the metamorphosis into our favorite Tramp Mime, "The Amazing Earl."
In
the ensuing passion play, Dan portrays each of the characters in turn...except
for Christ. He is instead represented throughout the story by a
peach-colored balloon on a stick.
Here we see Jesus being welcomed into Jerusalem on Palm
Sunday by a jigging onlooker, shaking his palm branches to the strains of a
hymn-playing marching band.
Dan
unfolds the events of Holy Week by portraying the Apostle Paul, Pontius Pilate
and even a Roman Soldier...advancing the story and pointing out the human side
of each one.
There's plenty of comedy in "The Passion,"
the program has it's serious side, too.
Segments
depicting the Last Supper and Peter's Denial allow Dan to flex his considerable
dramatic muscles. As the balloon is slowly deflated on the cross, you can
practically hear the Holy Spirit moving through the hearts of the audience
during the crucifixion scene.
The emotional momentum continues to build during the
resurrection scene as Christ is revealed as a gleaming WHITE balloon! And
during the ascension scene, when that simple symbol rises slowly into the air,
there isn't a dry eye in the house.
Dan then uses the balloon on the ceiling as a stirring object lesson in a brief but powerful message illustrating Christ's return and the importance of the Great Commission.
Running
Time: 75 minutes
May also be abbreviated for use during a Worship
Service. Available each year from Ash Wednesday through Easter Sunday.
Dan
Wolfe Creative Entertainment
Gray, Tennessee (423) 477-7724