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NORTH SALT LAKE — Just in time for Easter, about 170 musicians are getting together to perform an oratorio about the last days of Jesus Christ’s mortal life.
Witness Music, a nonprofit organization, will perform “Lamb of God,” at the Bountiful Regional Center Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
Written by Rob Gardner, “Lamb of God” retells the story of the Atonement, according to Creative Director and Witness Music Utah Chapter President Jason Robison.
Mary, the mother of Christ, Mary Magdalene and some of Christ’s apostles tell the story, Robison said.
“It’s a very touching, moving piece to be a part of both as an audience member and as a musician,” Robison said. “Really, what Witness Music is trying to do is make the 'Lamb of God' an Easter tradition much like 'The Messiah' is a tradition for Christmas.”
This is the fourth year Witness Music Choir and Orchestra will perform “Lamb of God.” The group recently performed it at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Orem and will perform it at the Utah State Prison in Draper for both the women’s facility and the men’s facility next month.
Our real goal is to testify of Jesus of Nazareth and unite all Christians through the power of music.
–Jason Robison
Local performer Daniel Beck, known for his work in “Liken the Scriptures” will portray the apostle Peter and Elizabeth Marsh, a cellist in the Orchestra at Temple Square, is a solo cellist in the oratorio. Michelle Sundwall, who has toured throughout Europe and the United States as a soloist, plays the role of Mary Magdalene.
The voice of Christ is depicted through cello music, Robison said.
“It really just adds depth and power to the work; it’s really tastefully done. I really love that element of it,” Robison said.
Because of the generous donations Witness Music received, tickets for this performance of “Lamb of God” will be free of charge.
Friday’s performance is sold out, but tickets for Wednesday and the two Saturday performances are available at the Witness Music website. Wednesday's performance is largely for youth groups Witness Music has invited, but anyone can attend.
“Lamb of God” will start at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, and 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, according to the website.
Witness Music is a multidenominational group, Robison said.
“Our real goal is to testify of Jesus of Nazareth and unite all Christians through the power of music,” Robison said.
