THE streets of Bewdley will become a theatre for the telling of the Passion of Christ on Good Friday next year.

The performance is due to take place on March 29, 2013 where Load Street and the Severn River Bridge will be closed for an hour as actors play out the scenes.

The Bewdley Passion play will be performed by professional and non-professional actors with some non-speaking roles still available.

Both the cast and audience will move throughout Bewdley as the story of the trial and death of Jesus are performed.

The finale of the play will be the crucifixion scene in front of St Anne’s Church, in Load Street.

Director Stephen Conway said: “This is an amazing opportunity to direct a play based on an incredibly important and emotional time in the Christian year and I feel deeply honoured to be involved in this project.

“Whatever your personal beliefs are the story of the final hours of Jesus has made a lasting impression on history and culture of our world.

“It remains one of the most dramatic and incisive stories of any age which engages people of all ages and beliefs.

“Bewdley has a wonderful tradition of fostering creative projects and now it is to host its first Passion Play.”

Local school children will hopefully play an important role in the event by taking part in the procession and producing a poster design.

New music is also being composed which will be performed at some stage during the performance.

Rev Keith James said: “The Bewdley Passion takes the story of the final hours of Jesus’ life back out where it belongs.

“Jesus wasn’t crucified between two candles in a quiet building, his final hours were played out in the hustle and noise of people and streets.

“To take this story into the heart of Bewdley is both risky and exciting. It will be a memorable start to the Easter weekend and is yet another reason to visit the town.”

Anyone wanting to get involved can call Stephen Conway on 07774 252 992 or email stephen.conway2012 @btinternet.com