Helsinki White Cathedral Becomes Outdoor Theater; Passion Play Celebrates 30 Years

During the Easter holidays in Helsinki, as night falls, lights illuminate the steps of the Cathedral in Senate Square. Thousands of spectators brave the rain, children crowding the front rows, looking up at everything unfolding in the square. This scene has been performed continuously in this city for 30 years.

Director Markku Arokanto told the Central News Agency that being able to stand in this square is a special thing in itself. He pointed out that the roots of this play can be traced back to medieval Europe, and "it is very precious that this tradition has taken root in Helsinki."

Arokanto said that many people choose to leave the city for their cabins during the holidays, but crowds still gather in the square. "It's raining, but everyone still came. This is a performance everyone wants to witness firsthand."

Actor Panu Haavisto pointed out that the square is surrounded by the main building of the University of Helsinki, government buildings, and the Cathedral. "We are at the heart of Helsinki, just like Jerusalem back then, where administrative and religious buildings stood side by side. This place is very suitable for presenting this story."

The Central News Agency reporter observed many families with young children at the scene. Children were in their parents' arms or standing on the stone slabs, intently watching the stage as the plot unfolded. The Helsinki landmark, the White Cathedral, transformed into a theater backdrop with magnificent lighting design, making it thought-provoking.

The "Passion Play" performance team is composed of theater and music professionals, amateur actors, and parish volunteers. It relies on a large number of volunteers each year to be staged in the square. Director Arokanto pointed out that this cross-professional and amateur collaboration constitutes the core spirit of this play over the years.

This year, due to renovations of surrounding buildings, the original parade route was canceled, and the entire performance was held in Senate Square. Arokanto set the theme for this year's performance as "From light to dark, from dark to light." (Edited by Chang Chih-hsuan) 1150406