This article was published in March 2024, in the McCook Gazette.
CURTIS Neb. - Sunday, March 24, 2024, marked the 62nd annual Palm Sunday Easter Pageant in Curtis, Neb. The pageant consists of living pictures made up of volunteers that tell the story of Easter through 17 different scenes set to music and narration.
On April 4, 1958, the first community Easter pageant was presented.
In 1961, the format was changed to the present form of "Living Pictures." A narration was added to establish the mood and background of each scene and its accompanying choral numbers.
Children were added in 1971 to an additional scene showing Jesus surrounded by children. Governor Charles Thone signed Legislation in 1981 that designated Curtis as Nebraska's official "Easter City."
Pictures were taken during the dress rehearsal because photography is not allowed at the actual pageant. The rehearsal happens the Friday before the event every year, and the choir begins practicing six weeks before. Heath Ehlers, who depicted Jesus in this year's pageant, said he started participating as a child. His wife, Rochelle, is the current president of the pageant.
The dress rehearsal can go late as they run through the entire program twice. Volunteers fix a meal for the cast, crew, and choir. They also hold a bake sale to raise funds for the event, as attending is at no cost; it is just a free-will offering.
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