Cancún’s Beach Via Crucis Faces Casting Challenge Ahead of 15th Edition

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Organizers of the annual Via Crucis at Playa Delfines are scrambling to fill key roles, including Pontius Pilate, just days before the event’s 15th edition this Good Friday.

The performance is scheduled for Friday, April 3, at 4:00 p.m., with activities beginning at 1:00 p.m. Nicté Ha Sabido, a member of Evangelización Creativa, acknowledged the group has faced “setbacks” in finalizing the cast and has issued an open call for local actors—professional or with stage experience—to join the production.

“It would be wonderful to receive actors to develop some of the main characters,” she said, noting the final rehearsal will be held this Sunday at 7:00 a.m. on the beach.

Despite the challenge, the event is proceeding with an estimated 250 participants on stage, a number that could reach 300. Rafael Pasquel will portray Jesus Christ.

Sabido highlighted that the event, held for over a decade, has become a fixture of religious tourism in the Mexican Caribbean, attracting locals and visitors seeking a spiritual experience in an unconventional setting.

“It’s very impactful for tourists; many don’t imagine experiencing something like this on the beach,” she commented.

She added that the event has the support of the local diocese and is part of Cancún’s tourism ministry activities, alongside events like Christmas on the Beach. Organizers reiterated the invitation for volunteers and cast members to participate.