New Jerusalem Theater

New Jerusalem Theater (Nova Jerusalém) is a city Theater located in Brejo da Madre de Deus, in the district of Fazenda Nova, approximately 180 kilometers (110 mi) from Recife. Established in 1968, this large open-air theater is known for hosting an outdoor Passion of Christ performance every Easter.

New Jerusalem theater
The theater's external walls
General information
Location	Brejo da Madre de Deus, Pernambuco, Brazil
Coordinates	8.1822°S 36.1932°W / -8.1822; -36.1932
Construction started	1968 (1968)
Technical details
Size	100,000 square metres (1,100,000 sq ft)

New Jerusalem theatre is considered the largest open-air theater in the world. It has artificial lakes, nine stages, a 3500 m wall and 70 towers.

History

The inception of New Jerusalem dates back to 1951 when Epaminondas Mendonça, a marketer, conceived the idea of reenacting Jesus's life, death, and resurrection on the streets of Fazenda Nova during Holy Week.

Inspired by Passion plays, Mendonça sought to bring a similar event to his community, adding plays.

The theater was completed in 1968, with Plínio Pacheco serving as its Director until his passing in 2002.

Events

Passion of Christ

Every evening on Holy Week, New Jerusalem hosts a reenactment of Jesus's final days, for approximately two hours.

Spectators journeyed through nine permanent stages, crafting for the event, as they trace the footsteps of Jesus and his disciples through rural Pernambuco. The production showcases 60 actors, including many from Rede Globo.

This happened alongside over 500 supporting actors, portraying the narrative of Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection.

Due to the importance of digital connectivity, the New Jerusalem Theater has embraced online platforms to reach a broader audience and enhance engagement beyond the physical confines of the venue. This includes live streaming of performances, virtual tours, and interactive content, allowing individuals from around the world to experience the Passion of Christ reenactments remotely.

New Jerusalem's annual performance has many people. The theater set a record audience in 2008, welcoming many spectators from 23 Brazilian states and 11 countries.

Stages and Scenes

Roman Forum - stage 6

• 1 - Sermon (Prologue, Temptation in the desert and sermon on the mount scenes)
• 2 - Jerusalem Temple (Discussions in the temple and The supreme council)
• 3 - The Upper Room (The last supper/dinner)
• 4 - The Garden (Agony in the garden, Judas betrayal and Arrest of Jesus)
• 5 - Herod Palace (Herod's bacchanal/orgy and Jesus against Herod)
• 6 - Roman Forum (Pilate against Jesus, Scourging and Condemnation of Jesus)
• 7 - Via Sacra (Meeting with Mary, Women of Lamentations, and The Cirino)
• 8 - Calvary (Despair of Judas, Crucifixion and death on the cross, the descent of the cross and Mater painful)
• 9 - Sepulcher (The burial, Resurrection, Three Marias (Mary's), Angel of resurrection and Ascension of Jesus)