History
The Iona Passion Play, in traditional European form, was founded in 1958 at Iona College, Brisbane, by the late Rev. Father Thomas Shortall OMI.
It has been performed in Australia every year since, making it Australia's longest running touring passion play.
Often referred to as an act of public worship, the Play has been presented in many cities and towns from Cairns to Perth, travelled over 50 000 km and has been seen and enjoyed by thousands of people.
It has been performed in Australia every year since, making it Australia's longest running touring passion play.
Often referred to as an act of public worship, the Play has been presented in many cities and towns from Cairns to Perth, travelled over 50 000 km and has been seen and enjoyed by thousands of people.
Fr Thomas Shortall OMI
1958 Founded in Brisbane, QLD by Fr Thomas Shortall OMI
1960 First performance outside Brisbane
Toowoomba, QLD
1961 Australian Interstate Tour
- broke 19mins off the flight record from Bris-Melb
- 1st commercial airliner
to fly Alice Springs-Perth
- blew an engine over Great Australian Bight & only flew on three to Sydney
- got permission from
England to cross Woomera rocket range
1964 First Indoor Performance
Festival Hall - Brisbane
1973 Mother Teresa views the Performance
1979 North Queensland Tour
Cyclonic weather
in Cairns caused cast to wear raincoats under their costumes!
1981 Sydney, NSW Tour
1988 Expo '88
mid '90s
Music transferred to CD from reel-to-reel
1995 Introduction of Radio Microphones
2005 Website Launched
2008
50th Anniversary & Launch of Book
2012 Blessing of Memorial Garden
Copyright 2018 The Iona Passion Play Inc.
Julieann Caffey, St Joseph's Parish, Dalby ...
"We were very privileged to witness your performance of the 'Greatest Story Ever Told'.
Your interpretation has no doubt enriched our community and our understanding of Jesus' Passion and Resurrection."
1961 Interstate Tour
1973 Sidney Myer Music Bowl
1973 Mother Teresa Meets Cast
1984 Sydney Entertainment Centre NSW