Oberammergau's Passion Play Returns to German Stage after 10 Years

Like the Venice Biennale or a concert at the Pyramids, there are some theatrical events in life that are so spectacular you must be there to enjoy them in person.  Such is the legendary The Passion Play, a Christian-themed dramatic extravaganza chronicling the death and resurrection of Christ whose huge cast is assembled every 10 years.

Those who've been waiting will be delighted to know it hits the stage in Oberammergau, Germany this summer. According to the Oberammergau Passion Play website, The Passion Play was first put on in 1634 to honor a promise made to God. For the past 476 years (yes, we did the math), it has been performed in this town near Munich -- once every 10 years.

For families who missed it a decade ago, or whose children may have matured enough by now to understand it, The Passion Play will return to the small town of Oberammergau beginning on May 15, 2010 and run for 102 performances. The curtain closes on October 3, 2010.

Travelers who plan to see this moving performance can reach Oberammergau, in the region called the Ammergau Alps, easily. Just board a train in Munich to the town of Murnau, then transfer to Oberammergau. You'll pass farms and villages made up of white stucco homes with ornately carved, dark-wood balconies and colorful shutters. In Munich's main terminal, trains come once an hour and the whole trip takes less than two hours, but you'll want Rail Europe to book this in advance.

If you want more assistance than that, check the travel agents listed on the official website or look at the offerings of American Express/Wilcox Travel Agency, Inc located in Asheville, North Carolina 28801 (800-438-5828 ext. 337). They have 1 or 2 night packages with tickets to see the play, accommodation and meals. They can also arrange flights and transfers from the U.S.

Another full-service tour operator, Brendan Vacations (800/421-8446), has sold escorted Europe tours that include this area of Bavaria, even in years when the show does not go on, since 1969. As their spokesperson, Whitney Ramirez, describes The Passion Play, "The cast is made up exclusively of villagers, and equals any professional production in sheer spectacle and emotion. Attracting visitors from around the world, it is a journey that will exceed every expectation.

We know you won't be the only ones interested in seeing it, so if you're not buying into a package, first check on available dates, then worry about the quality and proximity of accommodation. After all, you can always come back next time.