The event of La Pasión de Adeje lived up to expectations. Not even the strong wind could hinder the execution of one of the most distinctive and culturally significant events in the region. Approximately 300 amateur actors, mostly local residents, participated alongside the technical and logistical support team that ensures this representation occurs annually on Calle Grande in Adeje.
This grand theatrical performance, lasting nearly two hours, unfolds on Calle Grande and Plaza de España in Adeje every Good Friday at noon. This year, the security measures accommodated nearly 9,000 spectators on-site, with an additional thousand viewers tuning in through Canarian Television signal, and another 13 TV channels and 500 viewers on social media platforms, reaching audiences across Europe and the Americas.
The Passion commences at the Plaza de la Cruz del Llano depicting the last supper. Scenes portraying the final moments of Jesus’ life unravel along Calle Grande. Preceding these enactments is a procession featuring all the cast members.
Key scenes included the involvement of the people up to the Last Supper, the meeting of the Virgin Mary with Mary Magdalene, the adulteress, and Jesus himself. Following the video of Saint John, showcasing the testimony of love, was Jesus’ messianic entry into Jerusalem, marking Palm Sunday with the familiar words, “Let the children come to me, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Other notable scenes from this edition of The Passion included the Passover meal or Last Supper, where Jesus shared a meal with the apostles and washed Peter’s feet, before forewarning Judas of his impending betrayal.
Among the remarkable scenes were Pontius Pilate’s trial, Herod’s encounter, Judas’s monologue, the prayer at the Garden of Olives, and the poignant meeting with his mother. The climax of the performance took place at Plaza España, where two crosses were erected against the striking backdrop of the Infierno ravine. In the centre stood the third and final cross, where Jesus, portrayed by actor Yehosua Treviño, delivered his final words. The Virgin Mary, portrayed once more by Ana Oneida Borges Medina, stood by his side, alongside other women who played significant roles in the portrayal.
The broadcast of La Pasión reached a national audience through 13 Television, while Televisión Canaria and Mírame Televisión aired it regionally. In the Canary Islands, the production was aired on Channel 4 television, Radio Sur Adeje 107.9 FM, Channel 10, and various social media platforms managed by the Adeje City Council (Facebook, Youtube, and Instagram).
Under the guidance of Laura Marrero and the artistic direction of Freya Jaén and Conrado Díaz, the fusion of talents from various areas such as cultural management, stage design, costumes, and communication has transformed the Adeje performance into a renowned cultural and tourist attraction on the international stage.
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This year’s rendition gave special emphasis to the portrayal of women. A new scene was introduced where the Virgin Mary, portrayed by Ana Oneida Borges Medina, and Mary Magdalene, represented by Daura Moreira, led a group of women on a poignant journey. The storyline also highlighted the parable of the shepherd and his sheep, showcasing a heartfelt dialogue between Jesus and his mother Mary. Additionally, the resurrection of Tabitha, a young girl, further added depth to the narrative.
Following this, Mary Magdalene and an adulteress, saved by Jesus from stoning, approached to convey a powerful message of inclusivity. Mary Magdalene, resonating with the event, expressed her emotions through a powerful song.
The portrayal of apostle Peter’s denials was expanded to include additional characters, providing a more profound insight into Peter’s remorse for betraying Jesus. A new scene featuring Claudia and Pilate was introduced, symbolising a crucial exchange about truth and justice.
In the palace scene involving Herod and Herodias, a notable interaction with Salomé, the niece of Herod, offered a soul-stirring moment. The annual performance kicked off with a vibrant dance by students from the Municipal School of Music and Dance of Adeje.
The wardrobe was revamped by designer Cristian Alayón, with new breastplates crafted for the temple guardians. The makeup, skillfully done by Ondani García and Agustín Padrón, played a crucial role in enhancing the artistic elements of the performance.