MID Cheshire Musical Theatre Company's ground-breaking production of 'Jesus Christ Superstar' at the Grange Theatre in Hartford was a huge success for the Northwich-based amateur group.

Group members admitted the decision to stage this show with its complex music and technical issues, was risky, as it was a departure from more traditional and familiar musicals.

However, the group was rewarded with packed houses, audiences moved to tears and standing ovations – all testament to the high quality of the production, which also broke the company's box office records.

Liz Cooley, from the company, told the Guardian: "We have been bombarded with messages of congratulations and thanks from those who came to see it - several came more than once!

"The words 'polished', 'professional', 'breathtaking', 'incredibly sad' and 'moving' dominated the comments.

"We had assembled a large and very talented cast for the principal roles, including Andrew Lee as the anguished Judas Iscariot, Jon Ranwell as the harrassed Pontius Pilate, Ivor Farley as the camp King Herod, Alan Jackson as High Priest Caiaphas, Daniel Cartwright as Simon, Jacob Hallett as Peter and Josh Radcliffe as Annas.

"Sarah Ford made a brilliant stage debut as the soothing and loyal Mary Magdalene and finally Andrew Dunn, who portrayed Jesus in such a sensitive and authentic manner. "Audiences were transfixed when he was on stage, and visibly and audibly emotionally affected by the crucifixion scene.

Every member of the ensemble played a vital role in the overall production, as did the wonderful lighting and sound crew, who created the changing moods and scenarios so effectively.

"Final mention must go to the amazing musical director, Peter England who not only inspired the cast with his vision and enthusiasm, but also formed a band of extremely talented musicians who added so much to the success of the production."

The company's next production will be the much loved Rodgers and Hammerstein's 'South Pacific' which opens on September 28 at the Grange Theatre.

The production team has been appointed and our first get-together will be on Wednesday, April 13 at the University Primary Academy in Weaverham at 7.30pm.

More information about the group can be found on mcmtc.co.uk, at facebook.com/MidCheshireMTC or call 01606 853573.

The Box Office is already open, so take your pick of the best seats now.

Visit thegrangetheatre.com or call 01606 723570.