What have the Romans done for us?

You Shall Not Pass

The Roman soldiers start appearing when the Jews need them to crucify Jesus. This clash of cultures is demonstrated very passionately by the Romans who have no concern for the Jews who keep annoying them.
Tough yet fair in their own way, the Romans do the bidding of Pontius Pilate and try to maintain the peace in a conquered city that hates them.
There is a story arc for the Romans as they encounter Jesus. The Centurion Longinus comes the furthest but we will discuss that later. The Romans begin the play ready and willing to take out their frustrations on the man handed over to them.

This is Roman Territory

But as the Passion continues this becomes less appealing and by the end they have a mixture of begrudging respect for Jesus and an understanding that not all Jews are like the hated Caiaphas and his priests through to a weariness after a very challenging day.
The costumes are coming together nicely with new red under-tunics and brown pants. The red stands out and conveys the might of Rome rather well.
The teamwork of the Roman soldiers worked really well too. They worked and fought as a team and looked like a group that had bonded - a band of brothers.

Move Back!

Escorting Jesus to Pontius Pilate

The role is very physical with both the pushing matches with the Jewish Guards, the scourging and escorting of Jesus, lifting the cross and carrying Jesus to the tomb, this is another role for strong lads. How often do you see young men working hard for such a good reason as the re-enactment of our Lord's passion? They also helped with props and setting up and dismantling the stages too.

So what have the Romans done for us? Quite a lot actually.

Mix of concern and "encouragement"

Nearing the end - battle hardened gaze of the Roman soldier