The Tavern
What happened immediately after Jesus’ death and resurrection? What was the crucifixion like for the townspeople? Set in a run-down tavern on Good Friday through Easter Sunday, we see how five different people were affected: a barmaid, the widow of one of the accused, the soldier who pronounced Jesus dead, Barabbas, and a young teen. Rage, guilt, confusion, regret and doubt—their feelings are overpowering. But at some point, will these emotions lead to understanding, peace and even belief?
Jesus’ death and resurrection touches everyone, whether we choose to believe in Him or not. From the worst criminal to the most upright citizen, everyone's life can be changed by Him, and everyone has need of that change, because even the best of us is not perfect.
A minimal unit set makes this show perfect for any venue, and perfect for touring.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
PLAYWRIGHT HILARY MACKELDEN TALKS ABOUT HER PLAY
THE TAVERN
What inspired you to write this play?
I've had the idea of bringing people together in a tavern and letting them discover what has happened in their lives for a long time. Last year, a group of Christians in my town performed “Beyond Redemption” and during rehearsals I felt God nudging me that now was the time to do something about the idea. It nagged me until I just had to write it.
What's your favorite part or line in the play? Why?
I think if I had to choose, it would be when Barabbas says, “I get a brand-new start while He hangs on my cross.” I think it sums up what Jesus did for us all.
I also like the part when Hannah describes Jesus telling her husband, Reuben, who was hanging beside Him, that today he would go to paradise. She says it made Reuben content and hopeful, and then that it helped her too because, “If a lifelong wrong’un like my Reuben can be allowed into paradise, so can I.”
What did you try to achieve with this play?
Firstly, I wanted to show that Jesus’ death and resurrection touches everyone, whether we choose to believe in Him or not. I also wanted to show that everyone's life can be changed by Him, whether we're the worst criminal or the most upright citizen, and everyone has need of that change, because even the best of us is not perfect.
I also wanted a play that was fairly cheap to produce, needed minimal scenery and so could be taken to several venues if a company so wished.