Kimbolton School’s Senior School production of Come From Away closes tonight after three unforgettable performances in Lewis Hall — a powerful, deeply emotive and beautifully realised production that has resonated strongly with audiences all week.
We are proud to be one of the first schools in the country to stage the new Schools Edition of this award-winning musical. Our pupils have embraced the responsibility of telling a real and significant story with exceptional maturity, sensitivity and heart. Based on the extraordinary true events of 11 September 2001, Come From Away tells how the small community of Gander, Newfoundland opened its doors to nearly 7,000 diverted passengers. This year’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.
This production showcased a strong ensemble, with many pupils taking on multiple roles and transitioning seamlessly between characters. Leading roles were played by Harry B. as Claude, Eloise P. as Beulah, Lucy R. as Diane, Tom B. as Nick, Lauren A. as Bonnie, Emily M. as Beverley, Will P. as Oz, Jemima N. as Janice, Beau J. as Doug, Oliver D. as Joey/Rabbi, Henry D. as Bob, and Lucas R. and Toby T. as the Kevins.
Alongside them, a dedicated ensemble, Dance Captains and backstage crew brought richness, energy and emotional depth to the production, working with unity and professionalism throughout.
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. Alongside staff, our Student Directors — Gabby P., Izzie L., Aimee E., Molly A. and Camille C. — played a central role in shaping the production. From helping block scenes and refining character work to ensuring smooth backstage flow, their leadership, maturity and creativity were invaluable throughout the rehearsal process and performance week.
Mrs Akielan, Head of Drama, said:
“I have directed many school productions, but I have never known a rehearsal period with so many pupils unwell or injured at the same time. Despite this, the cast remained unbelievably committed. Pupils stepped into each other’s tracks at short notice, learned scenes from home, and supported one another every step of the way. Their resilience, teamwork and professionalism have been exceptional — and I could not be prouder of what they have achieved.”
Her words capture the spirit of the entire company.
With a live band performing Newfoundland-inspired folk instrumentation — violin, mandolin, flute, guitar, bass and percussion — the musical world remained true to the original score. Under Mr Gibbs’s musical direction and with mixing by Chris Warner, each performance created a rich, atmospheric soundscape that shaped the emotional tone of the show.
Choreography, led by Tizzy Pape and supported by Dance Captains Izzy C. and Emily D., balanced storytelling, subtlety and ensemble precision, particularly in the plane-based and transition sequences that are so distinctive to Come From Away.
The set, designed by Charlie Horry and Sarah Hollingshurst, evoked Gander Airport through wooden pallet walls, Mondrian-inspired flooring and period-style signage — a design that felt both handcrafted and authentic, grounding the production visually and thematically.
With over 300 lighting and sound cues, the technical demands of this show were significant. Assistant Stage Manager Chloe H. and the backstage crew ensured seamless transitions, prop organisation and backstage flow. The lighting and sound teams — including Olivia B., Thomas N., Bertie T., Toby SD, Zoe C. and Henry M. — operated with impressive accuracy, discipline and focus across all performances.
The programme’s use of flags to represent the diverse heritages of the cast and crew reflected one of the show’s most powerful messages — that we all “come from away”, and yet we create community together.
We were also grateful to the KSPA for providing refreshments each evening, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and guests and adding to the sense of occasion.
As Come From Away draws to a close this evening, we celebrate every pupil, member of staff and volunteer who brought this ambitious, moving and emotionally charged production to the Lewis Hall stage.
Congratulations on an extraordinary achievement — one that has truly captured the heart of our school community.
