WEIRTON — “Hosanna! The Rock Opera,” has been a fixture in the Weirton community since the 1990s.

It began as a small-scale Easter performance at St. Paul Church.

Throughout the years, it grew into a major production involving many denominations, including a large and diverse cast and crew.

In time, audiences grew, too.

It started with just a few hundred attendees gathered to watch a performance and listen to a message.

Ultimately, the hundreds became thousands of people throughout the Ohio Valley who wanted to hear the message, who wanted to see the message, that tells of community, belonging and Christ’s sacrifice for all of us.

The last performance of “Hosanna! The Rock Opera,” was given in 2003, ending years of a shared passion, unity and joy among hundreds of community members.

Many of those who were involved in the performance have felt a sense of loss since the show ended, according to officials.

They claim that many cast and community members were left to “face a world that seems to offer little respite and comfort to the many who are afflicted with difficulties.”

Following the support of sponsors and area residents, the performance was able to be resurrected last year.

“We saw our community come together again to face today’s challenges in a positive way, spreading the message once again that in Christ and in each other, we are not alone,” church officials announced.

“Doing a production like this is not without costs.”

“Please consider joining us in our mission to change the lives of our community, by delivering a positive message of love and belonging to those who need it,” officials continued. “You can help us in our mission through purchasing ads in our program or attending the performances.”

Performances are scheduled to take place at 7 p.m. April 4-6 and at 7 p.m. April 11-13 at Cove United Presbyterian Church, located at 3404 Main St. in Weirton.

“Please aid us in delivering a message that began a long time ago in Galilee … a message that longs to be heard in the Ohio Valley once again,” officials concluded. “You have seen where it began. Now, come and see where it continues — at Cove United Presbyterian Church.”

For information, call (304) 748-5980.