AD33...The Year That Changed the World When: 7 p.m. Friday; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday Where: Free Chapel, 3001 McEver Road, Gainesville How much: Free Contact: 678-677-8300
The folks at Free Chapel are planning to present the story of Jesus’ life and sacrifice in living color with their weekend production of "AD33...The Year That Changed the World."
"As we enter into the Easter season, I believe these presentations are a marvelous opportunity for everyone to experience the power of the resurrected savior," said the Rev. Jentezen Franklin, Free Chapel senior pastor.
Each year, Christians gather to celebrate the Easter season, which culminates with Good Friday and Easter Sunday, which is believed to mark the three-day period of Jesus Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. The church at 3001 McEver Road in Gainesville has planned 5 performances of AD33, with the opening show at 7 p.m. Friday. The production features a cast of 200 volunteers and incorporates Cirque du Soleil-style aerial acts. According to Brian Smith, the church’s executive media director, the volunteer performers are from all over North Georgia. "We have an annual (Easter) production. The show changes every year, but its the same gospel story," Smith said. "This is what we consider a large-scale, theatrical production. We’ve brought in additional aerialists and it utilizes music and drama. "It’s all a part of our ongoing effort to communicate the gospel through the arts." The show will take attendees on a journey chronicling the life of Jesus Christ, his miracles and ultimately his resurrection. AD33 will also include a special message from Jentezen. The church describes the show as a "truly unique and larger than life production highlighting the year that changed the world for eternity." "It’s still definitely what we would consider a family production," Smith said. "We’re proud to be a part of the Gainesville community of ministry and helping to present the gospel." There is no charge for admission and the shows are open to the public.