St Agnes’ Choral Society presented the Irish amateur premiere of the award-winning musical at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast, from 4th to 13th September 2025.
Based on the true events of 9/11, Come From Away tells the inspiring story of 7,000 airline passengers grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland and the warm-hearted locals who welcomed them with open arms. Packed with driving folk-rock music, fast-paced storytelling, and unforgettable characters, this extraordinary show is a moving tribute to the power of community and kindness in the face of tragedy.
With hit numbers such as Welcome To The Rock, Me and The Sky and a riotous party in the bar with a live band (and a fish!), this show had it all.
The show was directed by Rachel Logan-Fee, with Andrew Robinson as Musical Director and Amy Blackshaw as Choreographer – the acclaimed creative team behind Young Frankenstein.
St Agnes’ Choral Society have been wowing audiences in Belfast since 1958, and recent smash hit productions include the classic Calamity Jane (for which Andrew Robinson was nominated for Best Musical Director), the hilarious Young Frankenstein (for which Emma Nugent was nominated for Best Comedienne), and The Addams Family (which won Best Visual at the AIMS Awards). This was their first production in the prestigious Lyric Theatre, and the cast and crew were thrilled and excited for this brilliant opportunity, which recognises the talent of local amateur companies.
“Come From Away is unlike anything we’ve done before,” said Director Rachel Logan-Fee. “It’s raw, real and deeply moving – but also unexpectedly joyful. The story speaks to the soul of Belfast: ordinary people doing extraordinary things, pulling together in difficult times, and finding light in the darkest moments. Come From Away resonates deeply with audiences in 2025, counters the darkness in our world and restores faith in humanity and kindness. ”
Come From Away is a powerful, real-life tale told with unexpected warmth, humour, and music that stays with you long after the curtain falls.
MEET THE CAST OF COME FROM AWAY:
Performed by a multi-role ensemble of Northern Irish talent and supported by a powerhouse live band on stage, Come From Away promised a truly immersive theatrical experience. The production transformed the Lyric Theatre’s stage into the heart of Gander, with little more than a few chairs, bold storytelling, and a lot of heart. “The first female American Airlines captain, the quick-thinking town mayor, the mother of a New York firefighter, and the eager local news reporter are among the many real characters caught at the beginning of the day that changed the course of history by being a beacon of light and hope at such a dark time.
Beverly* – Michelle Hannaway
Bob* – Themba Mbondiya
Bonnie* – Bláthnaid Carlin
Beulah* – Emma Nugent
Claude* – Fergal
Diane* – Antoinette McMichael
Hannah* – Fiona Keegan
Janice* – Helen Smyth
Kevin T* – Gareth McGreevy
Kevin J* – Vijay Sharma
Nick* – Tony Young
Oz* – Martin McDowell
(*and others)
For full coverage, see our October Issue!
