Cast features actor, director from Upton

The Milford Performing Arts Center (MPAC) celebrated another milestone with its latest production, Mean Girls: The Musical – High School Version, performed to enthusiastic audiences on June 19-20. The performances drew overwhelming community support, showcasing the talent, teamwork, and enthusiasm of teens from across the region—particularly from Nipmuc Regional High School, whose students made up a significant portion of the cast.

From left to right: Kaitlyn Allington of Upton and Hannah Le. Photos courtesy of Jennifer Rigdon, Milford Performing Arts Center

Mean Girls: High School Version is a dynamic adaptation of the Broadway musical that brings the drama and comedy of high school life to the stage with a fresh and age-appropriate twist. Based on the hit film, the show follows Cady Heron as she enters the world of American high school and gets caught between the artsy outsiders and the elite clique known as the Plastics. With catchy songs, sharp humor, and an empowering message about kindness, authenticity, and self-respect, the show was a hit with audiences of all ages.

The cast featured young performers from Milford, Hopedale, Upton, Hopkinton, and Worcester, with many standout performances from students of Nipmuc High School. Their strong presence helped anchor the production and brought a deep sense of camaraderie and school pride to the stage. The rehearsal process also fostered new friendships across schools, as many cast members met for the first time while preparing for the show.

“This cast brought so much energy and dedication to the show,” said Director Matthew Fear of Upton. “Working on this show was an immense pleasure. I have met some amazingly gifted people and I can't wait to work with them again.”

The production was made possible thanks to a dedicated crew: Natalie Crosier of Upton as Stage Manager, John Slusarz of Hopedale as Technical Director, and Patrick Blaney of Hopedale as Lighting Director. The family team of Jennifer Rigdon (Producer), Abigail Rigdon (Choreographer), and Arturo Rigdon (Sound Technician), all of Hopedale, played a vital role in bringing the production together.

“The joy we witnessed from these young performers—from the first rehearsal to the final bow—was incredible,” said Producer Jennifer Rigdon. “The support from families, volunteers, and staff was inspiring. The organization and heart everyone brought to this show made it a truly unforgettable experience.”

Teen performers shared how much the experience meant to them, both personally and artistically:

“Being part of Mean Girls was so much fun,” said Kaitlyn Allington, 17, from Upton. “It was awesome to participate in a program with so many new and different faces.”

“I loved how we learned the choreography and learning how to tap was so much fun,” said Connor Reynolds, 17, from Worcester. “I was new and everyone made me feel so welcomed.”

MPAC will be partnering with 140Arts Collaborative to continue to evolve as a community arts leader. Under new leadership and with an exciting new vision, the center is committed to producing 3–4 high-quality performances each year, including musicals and straight plays for children, teens, and adults.

Next up is High School Musical Jr., taking the stage on Aug. 22-23 at Upton Town Hall, featuring young performers ages 8 and up. Tickets are available at www.milfordartscenter.com.

For more information about MPAC programs, upcoming performances, or how to get involved, visit www.milfordartscenter.com or email [email protected]

Submitted by Milford Performing Arts Center