GATTON
COMMUNITY
THEATRE

Anna Thomson, Artistic Director,

with Matthew Rutherford in rehearsal

The Passion 2009

Gatton Community Theatre's production of The Passion was performed as a large scale open air promenade production around the grounds of Gatton Park, Reigate between 13 - 26 July 2009.  Matthew Rutherford played the role of Jesus with a large community cast and the PATH Gospel Choir.

As a writer and director Anna Thompson wanted to make the story of Jesus's ministry, crucifixion and resurrection accessible and meaningful to a modern audience and different in style from GCT's earlier production of The Passion in 2000.  The crucifixion of Jesus was one among many that happened 2000 years ago - so why are we still talking about it?    Why did Jesus’ best friend betray him?  Why did the High Priest and the religious leaders want him dealt with so severely?  Why did a crowd so elated at Jesus’ arrival end up screaming for him to be crucified? 

In his portrayal of Jesus, Matthew Rutherford illustrated the unique relationship that Jesus had with God but also showed him as a man and boy on a journey of self discovery, a man sent by God to make a change; a great orator and leader by example, but a man, nevertheless - one who was loved by his family and friends, but who suffered from frailty, jealousy, anger, self doubt, fear and sorrow like all of us. 

 

One of the first challenges in the staging of this particular production was the prospect of re-telling a male dominated story with a cast consisting of 70% women.  Anna decided to not case women in men's roles but to develop the strength of the women characters within the story and emphasize the driving force they were despite having little power or influence. In particular Anna drew on the characters of Mary the mother of Jesus; Mahla the Prostitute and Claudia, the wife of Pilate to emphasise this. The words of  I Love you Lord, the song sung by the PATH Choir as Jesus walked to take up the cross summed up the supportive and yet invaluable role that women played in the story.

If you woulld like to watch a multimedia presentation of photos, video and interviews with Anna Thompson (director), Matthew Rutherford (Jesus) and Matthew Donald (Judas) follow this link and press play button.   Thanks to Dave Berman of the Surrey Mirror for his interest and enthusiasm in putting this together.

Watch a slideshow of production photos taken for GCT by Liz Whittaker.

Visit GCT's photo gallery for The Passion. Photos by Liz Whittaker, Malcolm Brenchley, Maggie Kippen.

 

The Passion Audience:

Thanks to all our audiences who, regardless of all weather, supported our production.

Audience comments included:

  • "a wonderful performance"
  • "An experience I shall never forget"
  • "I wouldnt have missed it for anything"
  • "I found it one of the most moving thetre experiences I have ever had.  As Christ, Matthew Rutherford was magnificent, showing the charisma and charm Jesus  must have had to inspire people, but also the raw emotion of the other cast, across the board their skills as actors surpassed many I have seen in profesional productions."
  • "It was amazing, the cast made it feel very real, especially in the market scene of Jerusalem."
  • "What can I say, wow!  Absolutely breathtaking. A fabulous show" 
  • "I was delighted to have the opportunity to view what will probably be known as Gatton Community Theatre's best production. The open air promenade really brought this religious moment to life. With fine performances from Matthew Rutherford and all the cast."
  • "One of the coolest things I've ever seen, and I've watched some pretti cool stuff!"
  • "All in all a wonderful performance."

 

The Passion Cast:

Thank you for being so enthusiastic and remaining cheerful despite the all that rain. We hope you enjoyed the experience and will always remember being involved in this memorable event. We look forward to working with you next time.  Keep in touch!