What began in 1928 as an Easter sunrise service performed on a cotton trailer is now the largest annual outdoor Easter pageant in the world and we got to experience it last night. We arrived at 6:00 p.m. and found a good seat from the 15,000 chairs arranged in front of a 9,600-square-foot stage. The show began at 8:00 and we had time to check out the Temple Visitor's Center and meet some of the missionaries and take photos of the cast members.
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| Mormon Temple |
The pageant was a spectacular event with a volunteer cast of 425 and backstage crew of nearly 100. They work year-round to bring this production to the community at no admission charge. Volunteers design, sew, maintain and inventory more than 2,000 costume pieces. We sat beside a man that had played the part of a Sanhedrin for the last seven years. He said putting together a show this size is a "miracle". The devotion and love the volunteers pour into this production takes hard work and dedication because the show isn't just one night but runs for the two weeks before Easter for a total of ten shows. Hours before the show, the cast members walk around in full costume to socialize and pose for pictures.
On a side note, we had to replace the Saturn's AC compressor for the bargain price of $1,000. With the HOT Arizona weather, did we really have a choice? I think not.
Thanks for stopping in for a visit.
That pageant is just incredible. We met one of the performers afterwards a couple of years ago and she sat and talked to us for about half an hour. She and her family always during the lights and concerts at Christmas time. You're right - no choice on the AC.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing the pageant with us.
ReplyDeleteToo bad about the AC but still cheaper than a new car.
Hey guys, nice pictures! I heard it was quite an event!!! Check out my facebook page for our NEW HOME!
ReplyDeleteWe, too, loved the Easter Pageant. Certainly most memorable. Hope we have the chance to see the Christmas Pageant as well. Like your photos.
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