The religio-theatrical dynamics of the Via Dolorosa: Its significance for the Church in Nigeria

The aim of this study is to interrogate the spirituality of Via Dolorosa (the Way of the Cross) to the Christendom, especially Christian faithfuls in Nigeria and the didactic and theatrical value to the society in general. An exposition of the study enables Christians in Nigeria to come to terms with the signification of Via Dolorosa in relation to their spiritual orthodoxy and its theatrical value thereof. Via Dolorosa is an essential memorabilia in Christendom and represents the traditional route in the ancient City of Jerusalem that Christ travelled on the day he was crucified by Pontius Pilate at a place called the Praetorium. The study reveals the 14 locations marking the routes through which Jesus Christ traversed to the place of crucifixion under the excruciating pains in the hands of his persecutors. It is this unique, religious, and theatrical dynamics of Via Dolorosa that the study seeks to examine. Scarcely had the issue of Via Dolorosa been examined from the theatrical perspective. Via Dolorosa is thus adapted as a dramatic masterpiece for the social benefits of Christians and other numerous audiences.