Pictured: Petrucka and Hoppock pose together backstage after the Friday night performance.
Theatre Northeast’s fall production of Return to Roswell was a resounding success, drawing large audiences both nights and bringing together alumni, students, and community members to celebrate the arts at Northeast Texas Community College (NTCC). Click here to view/download photos from a gallery.
The play, written by and starring, NTCC's Theatre Program Director Page Petrucka, also featured the talented Athena Hayes, and Jill Bradley, with NTCC Theatre student Ladarrius Patterson serving as student director.
The performances were highlighted by special guests Doug and Sherry Hoppock. Doug Hoppock, the original Theatre Northeast Director and NTCC Theatre Professor from 1985 to 2016, was warmly welcomed back to the program he helped establish. Many alumni also attended, making the event a true homecoming for the theatre community.
Following Friday night’s performance, alumni were invited backstage to add their handprints to the theatre classroom wall, alongside their names and graduation years—a lasting tribute to the program’s history and growth.
Community support was strong throughout the weekend, with attendees from both the college and the surrounding area showing their enthusiasm for the arts. In addition to the vibrant performances, the event raised more than $1,400 for the Theatre Northeast Club in just two days.
“Theatre Northeast club members and the Theatre Department at NTCC would like to send a great big thank you to everyone who came and supported us this weekend,” Petrucka said. “Wow, what an incredible experience. I think everyone really enjoyed themselves. Our handprint wall is looking great, and we are overflowing with gratitude. Your support means everything.”
The success of Return to Roswell reflects the ongoing dedication of Theatre Northeast to provide engaging productions while building community connections and opportunities for NTCC students.
