Different Witnesses, One Resurrection - Easter Plays For Black Churches

This Easter drama tells the resurrection story through four distinct witnesses whose lives intersect with the empty tomb: a Roman guard bound by duty, a grieving follower shattered by loss, a questioning religious leader wrestling with guilt, and a faithful believer holding tightly to Jesus’ promises. As rumors spread and fear grips Jerusalem, each character is confronted with the same undeniable truth, yet each responds from a different place of background, power, pain, and faith.

As the resurrection is revealed, denial, fear, repentance, and belief collide. The risen Christ meets every witness where they are, offering forgiveness instead of condemnation and purpose instead of shame. By the end, the characters stand united, not because they are the same, but because the same resurrection has changed them all, sending them outward as living testimony that hope is alive.

Theme

The resurrection of Jesus reaches every heart, proving that God’s grace and forgiveness are offered to all people, regardless of background, failure, or doubt.

Characters

(16–22 actors)

• Narrator – Guides the audience through the story and connects the witnesses’ experiences

• Roman Guard – A soldier tasked with guarding the tomb who becomes an eyewitness to the resurrection

• Grieving Follower – A devoted follower mourning Jesus’ death who discovers hope at the empty tomb

• Questioning Religious Leader – A leader burdened by guilt and doubt after Jesus’ trial and death

• Faithful Believer – A disciple who clings to Jesus’ words and encourages others to trust God

• Jesus – The risen Savior who offers peace, forgiveness, and commission

• Other Disciples – Followers struggling with fear and confusion

• Religious Officials – Leaders seeking to suppress the truth

• Roman Soldiers – Enforcers of order and witnesses to unrest

• Townsperson(s) – Represent the divided public response to the resurrection

• Angel – Messenger announcing that Jesus has risen

When

Biblical times, during the days immediately following the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus

Props & Costumes

• Roman armor and helmets

• Robes and prayer shawls

• Burial spices and cloths

• Coins (symbol of bribery and betrayal)

• Stone or symbolic tomb entrance

• Torches or lanterns

Why

“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.” (Matthew 28:6)
This verse anchors the story’s message: the resurrection confirms Jesus’ identity and reveals that God’s promise of salvation is fulfilled, offering forgiveness and new life to all who believe.

How

The play uses character-driven scenes and simple, symbolic staging to move between the tomb, private rooms, and public spaces, allowing the audience to experience the resurrection through multiple perspectives and emotional journeys.

Time

60 minutes