Hundreds descend on Trafalgar Square for gory re-enactment of Jesus's crucifixion

The gory re-enactment of the Passion of Jesus was watched by hundreds of people
The gory re-enactment of the Passion of Jesus was watched by hundreds of people

Hundreds of people flocked to central London to watch a grisly performance of the Passion of Jesus on Good Friday.

Actors performed a gruesome version of the Easter story depicting Jesus being nailed to a cross before he rose again two days after his death.

The biblical story was spectacularly brought to life by 100 actors, live horses, donkeys and doves.

The free 90-minute performance marked the eight annual showing of the biblical epic at the tourist hotspot.

Jesus hangs from the cross in the performance of The Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square (Reuters)
Jesus hangs from the cross in the performance of The Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square (Reuters)

Crowds gathered to watch two showings at both 12 noon and 3.15pm.

Jesus carries his cross through the crowd while wearing the crown of thorns (Reuters)
Jesus carries his cross through the crowd while wearing the crown of thorns (Reuters)

Viewers took to social media to discuss the performance, which, last year attracted 20,000 people.

The open air event was organised by the Wintershall Estate as a “gift to Londoners”.

Actors dressed as Roman Legionaries in Trafalgar Square (Getty)
Actors dressed as Roman Legionaries in Trafalgar Square (Getty)

The group’s website described the performance as “realistic” and advised children were accompanied by adults.

Actor James Burke-Dunsmore as Jesus (Reuters)
Actor James Burke-Dunsmore as Jesus (Reuters)

Sabrina Nguyen wrote: “Seeing the Passion of Jesus re-enactment in the middle of Trafalgar Square with thousands of others was for sure a highlight of the semester.”

Melissa Coppins added: “Watching the #passionofjesus live in Trafalgar Square. Amazing! What a great way to celebrate.”

Lars Dahle hailed the show “inspiring and credible.”