Magyarpolány’s hillside becomes a living stage this Pentecost as the Magyarpolány Passion 2026 returns with The Way of Light (Via Lucis), a dusk-to-night open-air performance tracing Jesus Christ’s final days and the surge of hope that follows. Staged on the picturesque Calvary Hill (Kálváriadomb), the play blends professional creators with villagers, transforming theater into a shared act of faith, sacrifice, hope, and belonging. Performances run May 21–24 and May 29–30, all starting at 21:00 at Calvary Hill (Kálváriadomb), 8449 Magyarpolány.
A tradition rooted on the hill
Passion plays in Magyarpolány date back to the early 1990s, with the village hosting the production since 1993 on its scenic Calvary. The cast springs from the community itself: locals step into the roles of the Passion story, turning generations of commitment into a vivid, once-a-year ritual that audiences remember long after the lights fade.
Script, music, movement
This year’s text draws from the Gospel of John, the apocryphal Hymn of Christ from the Acts of John (4th century), contemporary texts about Jesus, and original writing. The play is written and directed by Dr. Tibor Várszegi. Music comes from Kossuth Prize–winning singer-guitarist-composer Gyula Szarka, with set and costumes by standout theater designer Annamária Húros. Choreography is by Gyula Harangozó Prize–winning dancer-director Ottó Demcsák. The chorus is led by Renáta Grőberné Adorján. Jesus is portrayed by Gábor Kékesi. The 2026 edition is organized by the Municipality of Magyarpolány.
When and where to go
Dates: May 21, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30, 2026. Curtain: 21:00. Venue: Calvary Hill (Kálváriadomb), Magyarpolány. Expect an immersive experience shaped by nightfall, live music, movement, and choral textures that ripple across the hill.
Tickets and practicals
Adult tickets are a flat 12.50 USD per person. Children sitting on a lap attend free. Group pricing by phone: 20+ tickets at 11.10 USD per person; 50+ tickets at 9.70 USD per person. Lodging and food-and-drink options are available in and around the village, with six official images offering a preview of the ambiance. Whether you come as a viewer or a contributor, the Magyarpolány Passion turns a story into a shared journey—and a village into a stage.
