Manchester Passion, a modern retelling of the Easter story set to Manchester music from Joy Division via The Smiths to Oasis, is to be hosted by Keith Allen according to the BBC. Manchester connections run deep with the actor (The Comic Strip Presents 'Gino: Full Story and Pics', Manchester gangster movie 'Shooting Stars', rag trade drama 'Making Out', 24 Hour Party People) and occasional songwriter (World In Motion) who is a long-time friend of New Order.

The Factory connections don't end there because Tim Booth (ex-James) is to play the role of Judas.

Other stars' names, such as Bez, were mooted when the Passion idea was first conceived but it seems most were never going to participate or have since withdrawn.

Labels: Joy_Division, New_Order, The_Names

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