Door County Performance: Midsummer’s Easter Tradition Takes on a New Twist

Back by popular demand, Midsummer’s Music Festival will present the sixth annual presentation of The Seven Last Words of Christ on Tuesday, April 7 at 7 pm at Shepherd of the Bay Lutheran Church in Ellison Bay.

As a prelude to this event, Midsummer’s Music is having their annual benefit brunch on Palm Sunday, April 5 at Alexander’s in Fish Creek from 11 am – 2 pm. This extraordinary feast has become a tradition for the entire Door County community. Chef Bruce Alexander features a delectable array of foods sure to please adults and children alike. Tickets are just $15 per adult, $5 for youth 7 – 16, and children 6 and under are free. The proceeds go to Midsummer’s Music Festival to help offset costs for the presentation of The Seven Last Words of Christ.

“We’re so pleased that Alexander’s is again offering their services for this benefit brunch,” explains Kathleen Pearson, Executive Director of Midsummer’s Music.

This year’s finale to the Holy Week tradition joins the Door community from the south end of the county to Washington Island. Midsummer will bring the community together with a completely new presentation of Franz Joseph Haydn’s masterpiece The Seven Last Words of Christ. Midsummer’s Music’s world-class string quartet will perform, featuring David Perry and Isabella Lippi, violin; Sally Chisholm, viola; and Walter Preucil, cello. This concert, however, brings an entirely new meaning to the event.

“In the past we have had local clergy and guest speakers elaborate on the meaning of those last words,” explains Jim Berkenstock, Artistic Director. “This year, under the guidance of Reverend Michael Brecke, local professional actors will be representing historical characters, past or present, and reflect on each of the seven words, conveying the sense and essence of Christ’s last utterances. Larry ‘Thor’ Thoreson is working closely with Reverend Brecke in assembling the cast.”

People of all faiths are invited and children are welcome to attend The Seven Last Words of Christ. There is a suggested good will offering of $10 per adult and seating at Shepherd of the Bay will be general admission, with the performance starting at 7 pm.

To learn more, call 920.854.7088 or visit http://www.midsummerSmusic.com.