Tonbridge will host Kent's first Passion Play this Easter

This Easter Tonbridge will host Kent’s first-ever Passion Play in an ambitious and free community project involving nearly 100 local people of all ages and backgrounds.

The story of the death and resurrection of Jesus, beginning with his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, takes place in front of Tonbridge Castle on the morning of Good Friday, 29 March. 

Directed by Helen Longley and working with Tonbridge Area Churches Together (TACT), the part of Jesus is being taken on by young Tom Holland, 23, a former Hugh Christie Technology College student from Tunbridge Wells.

Leading a donkey called Guinness and followed by a costumed cast where many of the actors are under 30, Tom will make his entrance through the Castle Gateway where he will be greeted by local primary school children singing his praise. The action continues on the tarmac in front of the Castle, the Lawns below providing a natural amphitheatre for the audience to gather and watch the powerful story unfold.

As well as the actors, who have been rehearsing all year at Tonbridge Baptist Church, many behind-the-scenes talents have been involved, including professional sound, music and set building – not least an impressive cross built by carpentry students at the West Kent YMCA designed to bear the weight of a 6ft 4in Jesus.

There will be one performance which takes place on Good Friday (March 29), starting from St. Peter and St. Paul at 10.20am and processing to Tonbridge Castle where the play will commence at 10.30am in front of the audience on Castle Lawn.

Further information on www.tonbridgepassionplay2013  and   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tonbridge-Passion-Play-2013/470036106363590   

Treat For Tonbridge Seniors

Life long Tonbridge resident Majorie Clifton aged 94

Yesterday 140 seniors who live alone, were treated by Tonbridge Lions Club to an afternoon of entertainment and refreshments at Tonbridge Baptist Church.

The guests were transported to and from the venue by Lions members and enjoyed a performance by Lions and their ladies. The show also included “guest spot” performance by two former Mayors, Cllrs Sue Murray and Brian Luker who performed “Ah Yes, I Remember It Well”. Dame Trott (Ian Patterson) from the recent Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime also featured as a guest artist. During the in terval, afternoon tea, sandwiches and cakes, made by the Lions’ ladies, were served.

The Mayor of Tonbridge and Malling, Councillor Dave Davis, was in attendance and gave a vote of thanks to the Lions on behalf of the guests. Lion Colin Lord, chairman of the organising committee, said, “It was great to see so many people enjoying the afternoon’s entertainment. It made us feel that all our efforts were worthwhile.”