THE GOAN | PANAJI
Fr Allan Tavares has brought St Francis Xavier’s spiritual journey to life through his plays, and ‘Xavier's Mission China’, the third chapter in a trilogy of musicals, celebrates the life and spiritual quest of St Francis Xavier.
Set against the backdrop of the Solemn Exposition of the Relics of St Francis Xavier in 2024, ‘Xavier's Mission China’ offers a powerful portrayal of faith and devotion and aims to inspire pilgrims to carry forward Xavier's devotion.
Produced by Shubhsandesh Gospel Echoes troupe in collaboration with Handmaids of Christ and directed by Fr Allan Tavares, this production delves into Xavier's last voyage from Malacca aboard the ship Santa Croce, focusing on his burning desire to reach China.
Drawing from extensive research and Xavier’s own letters, the musical sheds light on lesser-known aspects of his time in Malacca and his enduring determination to spread the Gospel.
It aims to inspire pilgrims with its blend of historical insights, vibrant performances, and a message of unwavering dedication to a divine mission.
The musical not only pays homage to Xavier’s legacy but also serves as a testament to the missionary spirit that transcends borders and cultures, inviting audiences to reflect on their own spiritual journeys.
The new play brings together artistes from Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, Arunachal Pradesh, Goa as well as from the USA to present this musical for the greater glory of God, with music by Rabin D’Pietro and Rio Fernandes, and choreography by Josinho Fernandes and Lemtam Mossang.
The operetta will be staged for free at three venues in Goa.
On November 30, ‘Xavier's Mission China’ will be staged at Ravindra Bhavan, Curchorem. Passes for this show are available at RB Curchorem, Our Lady Miracles Church-Sanguem, and Guardian Angel High School-Curchorem.
On December 2, the operetta will be staged at Ravindra Bhavan Margao. Passes for this show can be obtained at Grace Church-Margao, Carmelite Monastery, St Convent Joseph Alto Aquem, Furtados-Margao, and RB Margao.
On December 3, the operetta will be staged at Sala de Nossa Senhora de Piedade Hall Candolim. Passes are available at Little Flower of Jesus High School and Primary School Calangute, and at Candolim Hall.
Passes of all the shows are also available at Furtados-Panjim. These free performances aim to reach out to as many faithful as possible, offering a unique opportunity to experience Xavier’s final mission through art and spirituality.
Fr Allan Tavares has been bringing St Francis Xavier’s spiritual journey to life through his plays, ‘Francis, a Man in a Hurry’ (2004) and ‘Francis on a Mission: Mission Japan’ (2014).
The first play depicted Xavier's voyage from Europe to Goa, while the sequel traced his path from Malacca to Japan, both offering audiences a profound glimpse into his missionary spirit.
