April 1, 2008

World Youth Day 2008 (WYD08) organizers today announced the main cast for the Stations of the Cross (SOTC) performance which will take place at various Sydney CBD locations in July.

The main cast members are:

• Jesus - Alfio Stuto
• Mary - Marina Dickson
• Pontius Pilate - Don McDonald
• Judas - Chehade Richa
• Peter - Mark McCormick

Cardinal George Pell, Archbishop of Sydney and Bishop Anthony Fisher OP, WYD08 Coordinator, met the four Jesus finalists and the two finalists for the part of Mary on Friday 28 March to decide who would play the coveted roles.

"We were all very impressed with the short list presented by Fr Franco and are confident that those who have been selected will deliver a most spectacular Stations of the Cross re-enactment," Cardinal Pell said.

"The Stations of the Cross was a most memorable part of the Toronto WYD - it will be wonderful to have these young people demonstrate in such a powerful and dramatic way the great love God has for all of us."

SOTC director Fr Franco Cavarra will now begin rehearsals with the entire cast to prepare the actors for their ‘big moment' on the world's stage.

"I'm extremely delighted to introduce to the world this wonderful group of young people as they embark on what will hopefully be a life-changing experience," Fr Cavarra said.

"The cast were selected for their individual strengths as well as the dramatic impact that I am certain they will deliver during this exciting performance."

The Stations of the Cross will be telecast live to the world on the afternoon of Friday 18 July. A similar production at Toronto's World Youth Day in 2002 was watched by one billion viewers worldwide.

"We want this to be a landmark event, one that will appeal to all Australians, not just Catholics," Fr Cavarra said.

Supporting the major cast members will be Roman Soldiers, women of Jerusalem, religious authorities and extras that will see a total cast of around 80 performers.

Fr Cavarra brings a wealth of professional experience to the WYD08 team. He has directed operas internationally and around Australia, including at the Sydney Opera House. He is founding member of the longstanding Melbourne International Arts Festival.

The Stations of the Cross is an integral component of the WYD08 week of activities, culminating in the Final Mass with Pope Benedict XVI on his first trip to Australia.

Sydney will host the 23rd World Youth Day from 15 - 20 July this year.