"The Thorn" Brings Its Epic Story of God’s Love for the World to PPAC October 14 & 15, 2025
PART OF FALL 2025 TOUR
TICKETS GO ON SALE STARTING FRIDAY, APRIL 18 AT 10A AT PPACRI.ORG
Providence, RI – THE THORN, a powerful and popular live theatrical event, seen by over one million people, will bring the Passion of Jesus to life at the Providence Performing Arts Center for two performances only on Tuesday, October 14 and Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 7P.
THE THORN’s Fall 2025 tour follows a highly successful Spring 2025 tour with 20 sold out shows and 100,000 attendees. Over the past 12 months, THE THORN has completed over 30 sold out shows, captivating 160,000 fans.
PPAC’s venue pre-sale starts Thursday, April 17, 2025 at 10A – Friday, April 18, 2025 at 9A at ppacri.org with the code CROWN25. Tickets go on sale on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 10A at ppacri.org, at the PPAC Box Office window (220 Weybosset Street, Providence, RI 02903) and by phone at 401.421.ARTS (2787). Tickets start at $54.75; ticket prices are inclusive of all applicable fees and are subject to change without notice.
THE THORN offers audiences a unique theatrical experience in a show that has been hailed as “Cirque meets ‘The Passion’” thanks to its compelling mix of drama, music, dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics, emotionally evocative performances and timeless spiritual perspectives. The story spans from creation to the formation of the early church. Watch the trailer here. For more information, please visit TheThorn.com.
Author John Bolin created the show over 25 years ago to convey the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial death to a group of young people who knew little about the story of Jesus’ suffering but were familiar with pain through their own practice of cutting and self-harm.
The show has evolved ever since, with the current live version returning to the original format featuring St. John, “the beloved disciple,” recalling his many amazing encounters with Jesus.
“It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, spiritual warfare and redemption,” said Bolin.
Meet THE THORN Creators
THE THORN creator John Bolin, says God called him: “to tell stories on the page, stage, and screen,” an assignment he has now completed with the film version of “The Thorn.” His books include novels (The Eden Project) and Christian growth guides (So Loved, The Two Doors of Heaven, and Life Unlimited).
John’s wife, Sarah Bolin helped create the show and is the Executive Producer, managing the show’s national touring troupes. When asked about why she tours and has participated in THE THORN for so long, Sarah said, “God asked us to trust him and open our hands, and he promised to make something beautiful happen.” Over the years, Sarah has been witness to seeing God move in tangible ways across audience and cast members alike.
Sponsors
THE THORN partners with Compassion International, a child sponsorship and Christian humanitarian aid organization, headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO, the same town THE THORN was created in. In an effort to assist in the sustainable development of children living in poverty around the world, Compassion works with the local church to provide food, clothing, education, healthcare, discipleship and more. With a partnership spanning over 12 years, THE THORN is proud to have the touring cast and audiences be participants in seeing thousands of children sponsored and is expectant to see many more sponsored this Spring.
Jesus Trending
Although polls show that U.S. church attendance is declining, interest in Jesus is growing. “The Chosen,” the popular streaming series about Jesus, has racked up over 400 million episode views.
“As I first saw with my students 25 years ago, people who may have jaundiced views of Christians or churches are more open to learning about who the real Jesus was, how he lived, and what he taught,” said Bolin.
While previous incarnations of “The Thorn” live show have been performed mostly at churches, the new touring model makes the show available to everyone at mainstream performing arts venues and arenas.
“Jesus believes in accessibility,” said Bolin. “He wants everyone to have access to the ultimate story of love and hope. That’s why he came to earth in the first place.”
More information about THE THORN
Live performance details and tickets are available at thethorn.com/the-thorn-live The feature film version of the show is available to stream and purchase at shop.thethorn.com.
Outback Presents is the leading independent, full-service promoter of live entertainment in North America. Specializing in producing comedy, festivals, and music, with an emphasis on providing award-winning, best-in-class service to their diverse roster of clients.
Since 1996, Outback Presents has promoted and produced thousands of concerts, events, and festivals, ranging from clubs and theaters to arenas and stadiums. Founded in Nashville by Mike and Kathy Smardak, the company is driven by a shared love of comedy, music, and the transformative power of live entertainment.
Their mission is a dedication to excellence in service. Efficiency, adaptability, and collaboration are the keys to their success, and they work closely with artists, venues, sponsors, and partners to foster meaningful relationships to bring creative visions to life.
For more information, visit www.outbackpresents.com.