Oberammergau Passion Play 2022: A 400-Year Tradition Returns After Pandemic

The 42nd Oberammergau Passion Play, which was delayed from its original 2020 schedule, commenced on May 14, 2022, and will continue until October 2, 2022. This event has been held every decade since 1634, showcasing more than 2,000 local performers. Due to the five-hour shows running from Wednesday to Sunday, key roles are cast with two actors. Jesus is depicted by Frederik Mayet and Rochus Rückel. Christian Stückl, born in 1961, is directing his fourth rendition, having introduced reforms that permit married women and those over 35 to participate, along with Muslim involvement since 2000. The script has been revised to eliminate antisemitic elements. Musical direction is provided by Markus Zwink. An exhibit titled (IM)MATERIAL is on display at the Oberammergau Museum until October 16, 2022. Historical figures such as Sissi, King Ludwig II, and Pope Pius XII have attended in the past.