The Passion Play in Oberammergau has a long tradition - the now world-famous story began in the Bavarian village over 400 years ago. The Passion Play originated during the Thirty Years' War when the plague raged across large parts of Europe, including Oberammergau. After numerous residents lost their lives as a result, the Oberammergau residents swore to perform the play about the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ every ten years if no one else in Oberammergau died of the plague. The community's prayers were heard and the villagers have been keeping their promise despite all adversities since 1634.

In a five-hour performance, more than 2.000 participants bring the story of Jesus of Nazareth to life in the detailed and impressive Passion Theatre - from his entry into Jerusalem, through his death on the cross, to his resurrection. Almost half of all Oberammergau residents act out the story with great devotion and give vitality and hope to people all over the world with the millennia-old message of Jesus Christ.

Preparations are in full swing years in advance and the most exciting part for the villagers begins with the announcement of the participants. Those responsible spend months assigning all the roles to the right actors - from the main roles and supporting roles to the choir and orchestra.