The megalithic buildings of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra are undoubtedly two of the most fascinating prehistoric sites of the Maltese Islands. However few visitors stop to take in their splendid surroundings. This typical Mediterranean landscape is characterized by rugged rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation which gives off the wistful scent of wild thyme. The seaward view is dominated by the little island of Filfla giving the whole setting a mystical atmosphere. This Easter Heritage Malta is inviting you to be part of a unique theatrical experience in this impressive setting; the Passion of Jesus Christ. Featuring some of Malta’s best actors in what is surely to be the highlight of this year’s Easter festivities.

The landscape between Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra will be replacing the streets of Jerusalem on that historical night and the audience will become part of the drama. During Malta’s Neolithic the landscape here captivated the island’s inhabitants who chose it as the setting for their rituals. This Easter Heritage Malta is inviting you to rediscover and be captivated by this beautiful landscape.

Starting from Ħaġar Qim Temples, the audience will be guided through the main stages of the passion of Jesus, leading to the crucifixion. A number of historical and natural spots will serve as backdrops to the scenes and monologues which bring the events to the audience in a realistic and personal manner. The play presents the passion of Jesus Christ in such a way as to make the audience feel and experience the happenings on that day in Jerusalem. “The way we are presenting the play is intended to make those who attend feel as if they were part of the crowd witnessing the last two days in the life of Jesus prior to his resurrection. It is for this reason that we have not made any use of amplification throughout the walk”, commented director Alan Fenech who is also playing Jesus.

The cast includes a number of established actors whose faces are familiar to those who love following local theatre and television productions. In the main roles one can find actors of the likes of Zep Camilleri as the narrator, Triccas as Jacob, Anthony Ellul as Pontius Pilate, Michelle Zerafa as Mary Magdalene, Moira Muscat as the Blessed Virgin, Renato Dimech as James, Mario Micallef  as Simon Peter, Andy Catania as Judas Iscariot, Marco Grech as Natahniel, Sean Buhagiar as John, Ivan Debattista as Simon of Cirene, Sarah Camilleri, Roberta Briffa, Gabriella Borg and Simone Debattista as pilgrims, Tony Fenech as Caiaphas and Alfred Mizzi as Annas. “Having such a cast of actors is a guarantee of a very high quality production. The audience will have the chance to see the artists they admire perform very close to them and this adds to the atmosphere which is already very unique due to the costumes and the setting”, continued Alan.