• By Mabel Pais

Do you wish to take a front seat to experience the thrilling live theatrical performance of ‘THE THORN’ portraying the passion of Jesus?

Then don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness the passion of Jesus brought to life at one of the few select venues: the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) for this compelling theatrical event taking place on Wednesday, September 18 at 7 pm.

‘THE  THORN’ tells the story of Jesus and the epic spiritual battle for every human being. The story begins with the creation of the world and weaves through time, highlighting the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus and ending with the beginning of the early church.

With a powerful theatrical portrayal of the passion of Jesus, this highly popular production has been witnessed by over one million people. ‘The Thorn’ captivated audiences across the country, with over 50 performances from Spokane to Miami, most of which were nearly sold out.

‘The Thorn’ offers audiences a unique theatrical experience in a show that has been hailed as “Cirque meets ‘The Passion’” thanks to its compelling mix of drama, music, dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics, emotionally evocative performances, and timeless spiritual perspectives. The story spans from creation to the formation of the early church.

THE THORN STORY

Author John Bolin created the show 25 years ago to convey the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial death to a group of young people who knew little about the story of Jesus’ suffering but were familiar with pain through their own practice of cutting and self-harm.

The show has evolved ever since, with the current live version returning to the original format featuring St. John, “the beloved disciple,” recalling his many amazing encounters with Jesus.

“It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, spiritual warfare, and redemption,” said Bolin.

Watch the video – youtu.be/m-CrGi3KPTo

‘THE THORN’ CREATORS

“The Thorn” creator John Bolin, says God called him: “to tell stories on the page, stage, and screen,” an assignment he has now completed with the film version of ‘The Thorn.’ His books include novels (The Eden Project) and Christian growth guides (‘So Loved’, ‘The Two Doors of Heaven’, and ‘Life Unlimited’).

John’s wife, Sarah Bolin helped create the show and is the Executive Producer, managing the show’s national touring troupes. When asked about why she tours and has participated in ‘The Thorn’ for so long, Sarah said, “God asked us to trust him and open our hands, and he promised to make something beautiful happen.” Over the years, Sarah has been witness to seeing God move in tangible ways across audiences and cast members alike.

JESUS TRENDING

Although polls show that U.S. church attendance is declining, interest in Jesus is growing. ‘The Chosen,’ the popular streaming series about Jesus, has racked up over 400 million episode views.

“As I first saw with my students 25 years ago, people who may have jaundiced views of Christians or churches are more open to learning about who the real Jesus was, how he lived, and what he taught,” said Bolin.

While previous incarnations of ‘The Thorn’ live show have been performed mostly at churches, the new touring model makes the show available to everyone at mainstream performing arts venues and arenas. 

“Jesus believes in accessibility,” said Bolin. “He wants everyone to have access to the ultimate story of love and hope. That’s why he came to earth in the first place.”

PARTNERS/SPONSORS

‘The Thorn’ partners with Compassion International, a child sponsorship and Christian humanitarian aid organization, headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO, the same town where ‘The Thorn’ was created. In an effort to assist in the sustainable development of children living in poverty around the world, Compassion works with the local church to provide food, clothing, education, healthcare, discipleship and more. With a partnership spanning over 12 years, ‘The Thorn’ is proud to have the touring cast and audiences be participants in seeing thousands of children sponsored and is expectant to see many more sponsored this Spring.

TICKETS

For Tickets to The Thorn, visit NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office or call 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).

The performance is recommended for adults and children ages 12+. Not advisable for children below 12.

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)

NJPAC is located in downtown Newark, N.J., is America’s most diverse performing arts center, and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enhance and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, providing access to all and showcasing the state’s and the world’s best artists while acting as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its home city. Through its extensive Arts Education programs, which have reached almost 2 million children, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and arts enthusiasts. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors since opening its doors in 1997, and nurtures meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its constituents. Learn more at njpac.org or call 888.GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).

Follow NJPAC Online:

Website:   njpac.org

Twitter:    @NJPAC

Instagram:  @NJPAC

Hashtag:    #NJPAC

Facebook:   facebook.com/NJPAC

YouTube:    NJPACtv

Follow NJPAC’s Standing in Solidarity Series Online:

Website: njpac.org/takeastand

Hashtag: #NJPACTakeAStand

Youtube:  Standing in Solidarity playlist

(Mabel Pais writes on Spirituality, Social Issues, The Arts and Entertainment, Cuisine, Health & Wellness, Business, and Education)