This is the name of the musical concert being performed by the congregation of St Andrew’s Church (The Kirk) on the life of Jesus Christ on the 26th of January at the University Centenary Auditorium at 6.15 PM. This is an original production, with the script developed by the church members based on the Bible. What makes this production unique? Read on….

To begin with, this musical concert is unlike anything developed before on the life of Christ. No, it is not even remotely like ‘Jesus Christ Super Star’, the rock opera composed in the sixties. The difference is that this is a production developed and performed true to the Bible by believing Christians in a reverential manner. The pictures show rehearsals in progress in the Day Care Centre and the Centre for Continuing Education on the campus of the church.

It is also a musical with a live choir of seventy five of some of the best singers in the city comprising the choir of the Emmanuel Methodist Church, who have kindly joined the St Andrew’s choir, to give the songs the width, breadth and depth that is only possible by a large ensemble of singers. Together with two of the best choir masters and musicians in the city drawn from both churches.

The songs being performed, according to the scenes, draw from hymns, songs of praise, as well as contemporary worship songs which are inspirational, and extremely enjoyable to listen to. Over and above that, the songs and music have the power to move the audience along with the scenes being performed. What makes this an interesting production is also the use of audio-visual scenes and effects with telling results. Along with live actors on stage who will enact scenes from Christ’s life from his birth, life, ministry, crucifixion and resurrection inter woven with the songs and hymns.

There are also six dance sequences in the production that add to its richness and depth, and make the overall experience riveting for the audience. The dance sequences have been choreographed by one of the young choir members, and are original dance sequences, that bring to life some of the scenes from events in the Bible. All performed by the youth of St Andrew’s Church, both boys and girls. Even the costumes have been designed based on the norms of dressing in those times by members of the congregation!

This is truly what makes this a production with a difference. All the actors and dancers in the production are from St Andrew’s Church, ranging in age from the very young to the fairly senior. Its an entirely amateur cast that is being directed by Solomon and Martha Howie who have brought musical productions like ‘The little mermaid’ and ‘An enchanted evening’ to Chennai in the past. Both Solomon and Martha are also members of St Andrew’s Church.

Those who are interested in seeing the production may call the St Andrew’s Office for tickets at 25612608. There will be only one show with about 3000 seats available, so if you’re interested please call and get your tickets early to avoid disappointment.