Queen Elizabeth is not the first thing that comes to mind at the mention of passion plays — nor is Adolf Hitler, nor capering fish. But Pulitzer Prize finalist Sarah Ruhl’s “Passion Play,” presented by the Yale Repertory Theater this Friday, transforms this theatrical tradition of many centuries.

“Passion Play,” directed by Mark Wing-Davey, is an epic trilogy of plays performed in three-and-a-half hours. The three parts take place in 16th-century England, 20th-century Germany and Reagan-era South Dakota; they explore the changes in core beliefs under the influence of politics, history and great leaders.

[ydn-legacy-photo-inline id=”12055″ ]

“Passion Play” will open at the University Theater on Sept. 25; previews start this Friday at 7.30 p.m.