Moving forward, 2 years, to be precise, to Oberammergau’s Passion play taking place in 2010. I believe this one will be the 41st. So far, I don’t have plans to attend, and as I understand it these spots fill up quickly. I’ve always had a deep interest in theology and history — and a fascination for the macabre events surrounding J.C.’s life/death/resurrection and the fight between religions. I suppose the Catholic Church has always been an enigma to me.

Yes, the play was admired by Hitler & crew, and I get swept up by the intense emotions it stirs in people. Controversy at it’s finest. I say, let the play play on. Okay, so now my Jewish roommate, reading this, will put a lock on her bedroom door and cease all contact with me. She doesn’t have to agree – I actually would prefer that she didn’t agree with me, but we still sleep in close proximity to one another. My view is this is a form of art and art is always offensive to some. I am fully aware that the perception of the play is that it resurfaces old feelings of animosity. But will intolerance go away by darkening the stage? No, it will not. Prejudice is not on the stage. The intention to hurt and cause pain is not put there by paint or muslin. The play is the reminder of a battle still raging for some. It is martyrdom and glorification for some and perpetual persecution for others. It is passion. It is theater. It is life. It will spark debates and intelligent conversation as well as random acts of stupidity. I suppose I want to see it because I am curious about the props, the audience and the dialogue. I want to know who goes to Oberammergau and how they interact.