PLANS for a hugely ambitious open-air production of the story of the Crucifixion with a cast of hundreds and audience of thousands are taking shape in Winchester.

It will take place at several historic sites across the city on Good Friday, March 21, 2008.

Dubbed the Winchester Passion 2008, it will depict the betrayal and crucifixion of Jesus followed by the resurrection and ascension.

The backdrop is likely to include Oram's Arbour, the Great Hall, High Street and the cathedral.

Winchester church leaders are collaborating on the production including co-ordinator, Rev Howard Mellor, of the United Church, along with Ewen Huffman, of Winchester Baptist Church, David Williams, of Christ Church, and Canon Roly Riem at the cathedral.

The production director is Michael Orpen-Palmer from King's Somborne, who has directed plays in Britain and America.

He said: "It's going to be spectacular, with a movie-style action sequence at Oram's Arbour, then the more intimate setting of the courtyard outside The Great Hall.

"When we get to the final act at the cathedral, there will be something visually stunning."

Last week, a recruitment drive was held at Christ Church in Christchurch Road.

"We were quite nervous about how many people would turn up, but thankfully there was more than 250," added Mr Orpen-Palmer.

Further auditions are planned later this month and in October to decide the leading roles. The piece will use modern-day dialogue and start at Oram's Arbour at 6pm before moving to The Great Hall for the Last Supper. Pontus Pilate will give his judgement outside the Crown Courts and Jesus will shoulder his cross from the Westgate and past the Buttercross. The final act takes place at the cathedral.

The event will be free, and organisers are expecting big crowds from across the region.

Stewards will keep the audience moving, while those who want to stay put will be able to watch on giant screens.

The staging is likely to cost £50,000, and churches in Winchester have already raised £20,000. The city's university has also offered to help. However, the organisers now hope to attract corporate backers to help them reach their target.

A free event to launch the venture is taking place at 7pm on Sunday, September 30, at the cathedral.