For the past three months, Bannockburn resident Scott Mitchell and his daughter Carter have been making the 270km round trip to Tapanui twice a week to prepare for their roles in the West Otago Theatrical Society production of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Darren Kelly, who plays the lead role of Jesus, Bruce Potter (Caiaphas), Bernie McKone (Annas) and Damien Peyroux (Peter) were also along for the ride.
Mr Mitchell is playing Judas and Carter, 14, is in the ensemble.
This is not the first time the father-daughter duo had done the long haul for their love of theatre.
In 2024 Mr Mitchell played Bert, the chimney sweep, and Carter was Jane Darling in the of Mary Poppins: The Broadway Musical.
Mr Kelly said the friends decided to audition for this year’s show but did not expect to secure lead roles.
"Jesus Christ Superstar was never a musical we thought we’d be in," he said.
"I saw it in Edinburgh when I was 12. I was too young to appreciate it, but now I’m fascinated by the idea of what your last days might look like if you knew when you would die.
"There are quite a few male roles required in the show, and Scott twisted my arm to audition. We thought we’d see what roles we’d get and landed the roles of Jesus and Judas.
"It’s my first time performing with WOTS and both cast and crew have been an incredible group to work with."
Mr Mitchell said the friends have been travelling from Cromwell two nights a week for the past three months to rehearse.
"The time-commitment and being away from the family has been a challenge but seeing all our hard work pay off is definitely a highlight.
"There are so many talented and creative people involved both on stage and behind the scenes."
A particular challenge for Mr Kelly has been around rehearsing the crucifixion scene.
"The story is well-known and there is a bit of pressure to get it right.
"Practically speaking, there’s an element of trust involved as we figure out how I’m going to get on the cross and how it’s going to be lifted.
"Health and safety is also top priority and I’ve been grateful for several conversations and the team checking in before and after to see if I’m comfortable."
The work done by the creative team was one of the many reasons people should come see the show, Mr Mitchell said.
"The development of the props, the way they’ve been built to director Margie Rea’s vision and adapted as required, really shows the passion, creativity and cohesiveness of the creative team.
"I have a new appreciation for costumes, lighting and everyone working behind the scenes — every bit helps tell the story."
Mr Kelly encouraged those new to musical theatre to come see the show.
"Come along to a welcoming space and enjoy the hard work.
"Jesus Christ Superstar is a fantastic story and I’d encourage people to come along and enjoy a great show that will uplift and entertain."
The production is being directed by Margie Rea with vocal direction from Jeff Rea and Nicola Russell and additional choreography by Kirsten McIntyre.
Jesus Christ Superstar will run for eight shows at the MLT Community Theatre from June 26 to July 4 in Tapanui.
