published: Thursday, March 19, 2009

Steps taken to build a theater for 'Story of Jesus'

By ROMONA WASHINGTON

editor@newssun.com

WAUCHULA - Power and Light Production, a non-profit production company and ministry behind the 'Story of Jesus,' does not have "one red cent at this point," but it has some very big dreams that are one step closer to becoming reality.

Mike Graham, producer and director of the passion play, said the group hopes to raise enough money to build its own facility on 40 acres donated by Davis Family Properties.

Between Zolfo Springs and Sebring on State Road 66, Graham describes it as an excellent location for an open air auditorium.

The first step, he said, will be to form a second board that will oversee raising the necessary funds for the project. LaVon Cobb is chairing that board.

"The 'Story of Jesus' just about breaks even with the performances. Occasionally we will make some money, but last year we just broke even and this year we will be doing well if we can do that," Graham said.

An architect in Tulsa, Okla., has drawn up a floor plan for the 2,000-seat theater. "It will be the only thing of its kind in this part of the state," Graham said.

The facility will look like a Bible city from the road with a Jerusalem motif, Graham said. The theater will have a roof, but will be open air to accommodate the pace and action of the play. More importantly to the attendees, he said, will be more comfortable and better visibility seating than what is offered at the Cattlemen's Arena.

Plans also call for the campus to be made available to community groups for a retreat center as well as camps for children.

"It's all part of our dream," Graham said.

As for those involved with "Story of Jesus," Graham said the cast and crew are anxious to take on additional plays. Scripts are already in place for the "Story of Moses," and the "Story of Noah."

Anyone interested in helping with the construction of this facility is encouraged to contact Cobb at (863) 773-3839. Funds donated for the construction will be earmarked just for this project and not spent on operating costs for the passion play.