Audience involvement emphasized during annual UMHB Easter pageant

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BELTON—From dozens of preschool children sitting on the grass to senior citizens in lawn chairs, the 71st annual University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Easter pageant drew record crowds to the Belton campus March 31.

Dennis Greeson portrays Jesus talking with the little children during the Easter pageant on the UMHB campus.

Based on the story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the production is completely performed by UMHB students. Hundreds of students participate as actors, committee members, or as part of the production crew.

Dennis Greeson, a senior whose parents are missionaries in Chaing Mai, Thailand, portrayed a red-haired Christ this year.

Pageant Director Brandon Brewer, a junior at UMHB, was intent on creating a quality production because of the value it brings to people’s lives.

Dennis Greeson portrays Jesus emerging from the tomb as the Risen Lord as part of the UMHB Easter pageant.

“The gospel is so beautiful and so powerful, the costumes, the set, the props, the people are all instruments showing its power,” Brewer said.

The pageant was staged so the action would surround the audience, and actors could interact directly with them.

“We want them to feel like they’re literally sitting in the city of Jerusalem and watching Jesus as he lived,” Brewer said.

The flow of the story—and how the audience reacts to their surroundings— is emphasized by the message, and actors want that message to make a difference, Brewer stressed.


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“I love the experience of being so invested in this ministry. It’s been so incredible to see people come to life, and the gospel really shows out through people and the ministry as a whole. Being the director has allowed me to see so many perspectives on the gospel and the true grace and love Christ gave us when he died and resurrected,” he said.

 

 


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