A Parramatta parish will bring the story of Jesus to life in mid-2026 with a local production of the internationally acclaimed contemporary Christian musical The Witness. Source: Parramatta Diocese.
Mary Queen of the Family Parish, Blacktown, will produce the musical, which combines powerful music, striking visuals, and dynamic storytelling to explore timeless themes of redemption, friendship and transformation.
The musical is told through the eyes of Peter – faithful follower of Jesus, builder of the Catholic Church and the first Pope. Audiences follow his journey through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, experiencing his doubt, denial and eventual devotion.
Blacktown is one of the largest and most vibrant Catholic communities in Parramatta Diocese, with over 10,000 Catholics from countries including Australia, the Philippines, Malta, India, Lebanon, Croatia, and the former Yugoslavia, and nearly half speaking languages other than English.
Parish priest Fr Wim Hoekstra said the parish is ideally placed to bring this story to life.
“Blacktown is such a vibrant and diverse community, with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. We hope this production reflects that energy and brings everyone together to celebrate this story,” Fr Hoekstra said.
“Our parish shares the story and message of Jesus in a non-traditional way – not through preaching or teaching, but through words and song.
“The Witness not only tells the story of Jesus’s life, but does so through the eyes of Peter, taking audiences through the highs and lows of this remarkable moment in history.”
Originally performed internationally to critical acclaim, The Witness explores universal themes that resonate with anyone interested in theatre, music, or the human story – not just those of the Christian faith – and is suitable for all ages.
The parish’s former assistant priest, Fr Andrew Rooney, supported the initiative, keen to set a precedent for local parishes and beyond by using innovative ways to engage and inspire as part of the Church’s mission.
“We want to show that the Church can connect with people in creative, meaningful ways. The Witness is a perfect example of how music, theatre, and storytelling can bring the Gospel to life for everyone,” Fr Rooney said.
The parish held a commissioning Mass and welcome on the weekend to mark the start of preparations. Details: bethewitness.com.au
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The Witness Blacktown Catholics set to bring a local twist to global Christian musical (Parramatta Diocese)
