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 ‘Golgotha’ a One-Year Hit at Gonzaga
In the spring of 1924 Gonzaga presented the biblical drama "Golgotha" to the Spokane community. Gonzaga was the first college in the Northwest to attempt this production due to its staging difficulties. The play was considered to be the greatest of the American Passion Plays, which were very popular at the time. "Golgotha" consisted of a prologue and seven scenes depicting the stages of Jesus’ life.
Excluding the orchestra and choir, 187 students with 45 principals performed. Due to the magnitude of this production, the class schedule was changed and night classes were deferred. The elaborate costumes were rented from San Francisco or made by members of the Mothers' Club. The American Theater was leased for eight days of performances and up to 1,500 people attended each show. After expenses, $7,000 was applied to build a dormitory.
Due to its success, Gonzaga staged “Golgotha” again the following year. The cast was increased to 240. Michael Pecarovich, sensational as Judas the year earlier, repeated his performance but the play cost the University $11,000, spelling the end of “Golgotha” at Gonzaga.
Text and photo courtesy of the Gonzaga University Archives. |
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