WHITTIER – To honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, Rose Hills Memorial Park will present “Juan Diego & the Beautiful Lady,” a free, bilingual outdoor theater performance at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4. The play is performed by students of the Theatre Rehearsal and Performance class from Rio Hondo College’s Performing Arts Department, along with students from St. Marianne de Paredes Elementary School in Pico Rivera.

The event is free with viewing areas set up at Mission Hills Plaza at Rose Hills, 3888 Workman Mill Road, Whittier. The performance will move across several stages within Mission Hills and the surrounding hillside. A replica image bestowed upon Rose Hills by the archbishop of Mexico City, along with a stone from the original Basilica de Guadalupe built between 1531 and 1709, will be incorporated into this year’s production.

“We are excited once again to be working with Rose Hills on this special project, giving our students a great opportunity to perform in a distinctive environment,” said Gabriel Carrasco, main director of the play and staff member at Rio Hondo College. “After last year’s amazing experience, this new class quickly embraced the project. It resonates with so many students on a personal and cultural level, providing a wonderful learning experience.”

After the play, a traditional procession will begin at Mission Hills Plaza and end at SkyRose Chapel, where the event will continue with a special blessing. Food and special Guadalupana items will be available for purchase.

“We have been fortunate to receive the replica image and original basilica stone, and it has become a tradition to share them with our communities,” said Patrick Monroe, president of Rose Hills Memorial Park & Mortuary. “Rose Hills has served the needs of Southern California families for more than 100 years by honoring their diverse cultures and religions. We are grateful for the continued partnership with Rio Hondo College and St. Marianne, as well as for their talented students that bring to life their traditions and culture for all to see.”

For more information on the celebration in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe, visit www.ourladyofguadaluperosehills.com or call (323) 887-4837.