KIMBOLTON SCHOOL, CAMBRIDGESHIRE – Kimbolton School’s Senior School pupils became some of the first students in the country to stage the new Schools Edition of Come From Away last week – the award-winning musical based on real life events from 9/11.
Closing the curtain on three unforgettable performances on Friday 5 December, pupils were praised for embracing the responsibility of telling a real and significant story with exceptional maturity, sensitivity and heart.
Based on the extraordinary true events of 9/11, Come From Away tells how the small community of Gander, Newfoundland opened its doors to nearly 7,000 passengers diverted during the terror attacks that rocked the world.
Kimbolton School’s production captured both the humanity and the heart of that moment, highlighting compassion, community and the very best of people in times of crisis. The production showcased a strong ensemble, with many pupils taking on multiple roles and transitioning seamlessly between characters.
Mrs Akielan, Head of Drama, said: “As we reflect on our Senior School’s rendition of Come From Away, we celebrate every pupil, member of staff and volunteer who brought this ambitious, moving and emotionally charged production to the stage. I could not be prouder of what the pupils achieved, and the way they captured the heart of our school community.”
The production was led by Mrs Naomi Akielan (Director), with choreography by Tizzy Pape, stage management by Mrs Parle, and musical direction by Mr David Gibbs, supported by an extensive pupil tech and backstage team.
Pupils put together a live band to perform Newfoundland-inspired folk instrumentation – remaining true to the original score and creating a rich, atmospheric soundscape that shaped the emotional tone of the show. They worked on an incredible set, which evoked Gander Airport through the use of wooden pallet walls, Mondrian-inspired flooring and period-style signage. They helped manage more than 300 lighting and sound cues, the technical demands of which were significant. A pupil-staffed backstage crew also ensured seamless transitions, prop organisation and backstage flow with impressive accuracy, discipline and focus.
Categories: Kimbolton School School News
