Roughly half of the cast, most in ensemble roles, has ties to Rocky Hill. And all of them helped make "Jesus Christ Supertsar" a success. All four shows at West Hill School - two last weekend and two this weekend - sold out, helping to raise money for the Parks and Recreation-sponsored theater program.
"This show was a major fundraiser for us and a big success," said Liz Daigle, director of Rocky Hill Town Theater.
Megan McMahon said the first two shows were "awesome." The 2003 RHHS grad is one of several RHHS alums in the cast. She's been involved with the town theater group for the past few years along with her roommate, Tara Abate, a 2001 RHHS grad.
"My passion is theatre and special effects makeup," said Abate, who is part of the ensemble and also does makeup for some of the lead characters.
Abate has been involved with many of the group's productions since 2001. She said she loves working with close friends, such as McMahon, as well those from other parts of the state.
Joel Gephart, a 2004 RHHS grad, made his first appearance with the group this year and hopes to do more local shows in the future.
"Everybody's been great," he said.
Gephart, like all the past RHHS grads, knew Daigle from his days performing under her direction in the high school drama club. In addition to running the town theater program, Daigle also runs the high school and youth drama programs.
"She's the theater master of Rocky Hill," said Megan McKinnon, another local cast member.
McKinnon, a 2004 RHHS grad, is now a teacher at RHHS. She helped Daigle put together the high school's production of "Our Town" in the fall. Four students from that play - Kevin Ellegard, Andrew Kohanski, Derek Holmes and Carolyn Dobmeier - are also in "Jesus Christ Superstar."
However, not every cast member with local ties is a former or current RHHS student.
Christine Flynn works in Rocky Hill as the superintendent's secretary. She started two years ago and, having been involved in community theater for 10 years, saw Rocky Hill Town Theater as a "great opportunity to get to know the community."
Having friends, including her brother, in past productions peaked her interest and she said "Jesus Christ Superstar" has been a great experience. Flynn loved performing in the intimate setting of what is known as "the pit" in West Hill. Approximately 100 chairs were set up around the pit to create a theater-in-the-round.
"You're so much more connected to the audience," Flynn said.
If she has the time, Flynn hopes to continue to be a part of Rocky Hill Town Theater in the future.
Daigle said the group puts on one or two shows a year, depending on the availability of venues. Past productions include "Jekyll and Hyde," "Parade," "Miss Saigon," "Aida," "Oliver" and "City of Angels." For more information on Rocky Hill Town Theater, log on to www.rockyhilltheatre.com.