The Erl passion plays
Passion plays have been an essential part of the Tyrolean cultural landscape since the Middle Ages. They were often the result of vows. As a "border town" Erl suffered greatly throughout its history from repeated battles.
Since 1613 Passion plays and Easter performances have been spreading the Christian message of peace. The roots of the Erl Passion can be traced back to an Easter performance by the master singer Sebastian Wild from Augsburg, which is attested by the oldest script from the year 1613.
The play ran mornings and evenings from 1959 through 1973, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., and from 3:30 p.m. until 5:15 p.m. Since 1979 the Passion plays have been scheduled for 1:00 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday, from May to October. Between Passion play years first rate orchestral concerts were, and continue to be held in the Passion playhouse.
Since 1998 operas and orchestras have been a part of the Tyrol Festival in Erl.
Source: passionsspiele.at