Level 3 Extended National Diploma Performing Arts students from SERC's Bangor and Lisburn Campuses have joined forces to present Come From Away, the acclaimed musical by David Hein and Irene Sankoff, in a powerful and heartfelt student production, which runs from Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 February at SERC’s SPACE Campus, Castle Park Road, Bangor.
Over the past several weeks, students have immersed themselves in the story, music and real-life people behind Come From Away, exploring the extraordinary events that unfolded in the days following the 9/11 attacks in 2001. When 38 planes were unexpectedly diverted to the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, the local community opened their homes and hearts to over 7,000 stranded passengers — the “Come From Away-ers”.
Adding a deeply personal dimension to the production, one of the students reached out to Nick, the real-life individual they portray in the musical. Jenny Curtis, Lecturer in Performing Arts explained, “Nick, along with his wife Diane — whose love story features prominently in the show — sent a video message of encouragement to the cast. The message has significantly strengthened the students’ connection to the fact that they are portraying real people and real experiences.”
She added, “This production has been a true labour of love and a valuable professional learning experience for the students. In addition to acting, singing and dancing, the cast are also undertaking key production roles including marketing, costume, hair and make-up, props, and the development of technical designs — offering them an authentic insight into working within the musical theatre industry.
“The performers have also been supported by photography students who have taken headshots and captured the cast in rehearsals, whilst construction students have been involved in making the set.”
Jenny concluded, “Come From Away is a moving, uplifting story about kindness, compassion and human connection in the face of tragedy, and this student-led production promises to deliver an emotional and memorable theatre experience by the Level 3 Performing Arts students at SERC - not to be missed!”
You can catch a performance on:
Thursday 26 February 7:00pm – 9:00pm Bangor Performers
Friday 27 February 7:00pm – 9:00pm Lisburn Performers
Saturday 28 February 2:00pm – 4:00pm Lisburn Performers
Saturday 28 February7:00pm – 9:00pm Bangor Performers
Tickets - £15 for adults and £12 for Children aged 10+, students and retirees - are available from Ticket Source search SERC.
