Tomorrow morning Marina Prior will lead the nation in a commemoration of the Easter story as the Seven Network broadcasts the Christian musical, Celebration of Word and Song.
The 13th year of the Bible Society New South Wales production which played to packed performances at Sydney's Town Hall two weeks ago is now ready for the small screen.
Television producer Deb Chen from TVS says Seven's decision to continue as a major sponsor of the event will ensure the gospel enters home this Easter that might otherwise remain untouched by Jesus' sacrifice.
"It's a great opportunity to share the true message of Easter in a fresh, new, dynamic way," Ms Chen says.
"We're really excited to be able to share the experience of Celebration of Word and Song to those who weren't able to join us on the day."
The show's producer Marcus Cheong says this year's re-telling of the Easter story through a combination of dramatic reading, performance and music has been a welcome, if challenging experience.
"It’s a privilege to work with such talented singers and actors," he says.
"Marina Prior is incredibly talented and you can’t help but be moved by what she sings."
The hour-long television special will also include performances from veteran story-teller Graham Wade as an elderly "Peter' and high profile voice artist Nick McKay.
A mass choir combining choristers from St Swithun’s Anglican Church, Pymble, the Chinese Christian Assembly, Narwee Baptist Church, and the Redeemer Baptist Church, as well as full orchestra performs under the expert direction of Steve Wyatt.
"The music is really powerful and the acting is very strong. You really get a new perspective on the character of Jesus and what he went through on the cross," Mr Cheong says.
The performance will be screened nationally on Seven at 11.00am on Good Friday.
Celebration of Word and Song will also be broadcast on Sydney Christian radio station FM103.2 at 5.30pm on Easter Sunday.
"No doubt thousands of people will be touched by the Easter message as they see and hear it presented through word and song," Ms Chen says.
