Like stories of  legendary heroes,  the crucifixion of Jesus Christ has been retold in many ways and in different places.  As we know, passion plays are performed during holy week.  Some made their own material. Some had revisions and adaptations. Some for academic purposes,  and some for religious purposes, some for performance sake.

Because of  the story’s familiarity, a play about Jesus Christ tends to be boring and dragging.  Its predictability may not excite people.

Chancel Repertory Theater  stages The Choice, a musical play depicting the time of Jesus Christ. But the superstar of the play is not Jesus Christ. The story revolves around the character, Marcus, a Roman soldier. He then who fell in love with a Jewish girl, Hannah.  Hannah then introduced Marcus to Jesus to heal his servant and Hannah’s uncle, Amaziah.

It may be another play about Jesus but what makes it more substantive is that  it contextualizes the status  of Jesus in his time. It goes beyond the crucifixion. It gives audience a clear picture on why the crucifixion is not a simple truth. To describe  it as heroic is not enough to show the significance of  Jesus being nailed on the cross.

Unlike other plays, its language is very accessible. The choreography has  a modern touch. The music weaves the story and conveys  a message pleasing to the ear.

If you have time, I hope you get to watch the play. I’m grateful to be part of this production whose commitment and passion are worthy of admiration.

Original book, lyrics and music by Robert & Cindy Sterling

Adaptation by Pamela Imperial & Steven Conde

Schedule:

Sept. 23, 2012 (Sunday) – 3pm Hope Christian High School / 730pm UECP – Venue

Oct. 13, 2012 (Saturday) – 730pm Chancel Repertory Theatre – Music Museum, Greenhills

March 30, 2013 (Saturday) – 3pm and 7pm GCF Ortigas – Venue : GCF Ortigas Auditorium A –

May 04, 2013 (Saturday) – 730pm Ansi Corp. – Meralco Theater

May 05, 2013 (Sunday) – 3pm Chancel Repertory – Meralco Theater