The iconic outdoor performance, Passion of Christ, held annually in Recife at Marco Zero, will not take place in 2026 due to a decision made by the Pernambuco Association of Performing Arts Producers (Apacepe). This year was supposed to mark the event's 28th edition, but the producers have opted to invest more into enhancing the production quality before reintroducing the performance. General producer and Apacepe director, Paulo de Castro, emphasized that this break is necessary for the event to rejuvenate and evolve, highlighting that financial concerns are not the primary issue. Instead, the focus is on delivering quality experiences to the audience.

In an interview, Paulo de Castro stated that they communicated this decision to the government of Pernambuco and the city hall of Recife. The decision reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards for the performance, rather than continuing it at a compromised quality. The intention is to modernize the spectacle and explore new possibilities for its future, ensuring that when it returns in 2027, it meets the expectations of the audience and holds true to its cultural significance in the region.

Over the past 28 years, the Passion of Christ in Recife has become a significant cultural event, attracting thousands of attendees yearly. The decision to suspend the performance underscores the challenges of maintaining artistic quality in the face of potential financial constraints and logistical issues, yet illustrates a proactive approach by local producers to ensure the event remains a meaningful and high-quality experience for all involved.