The audience left each of the four sell out performances acknowledging what that had seen, with standing ovations and rapturous applause for the talented young cast.
The school became the first in Sussex to stage a production of the internationally acclaimed musical, and the achievement was recognised with a Certificate of Nomination for Best Musical from the National School Theatre Awards 2026.
Head, Heather Cavanagh, said:
“I am so very proud of the whole cast and crew; their dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm shone through every performance from the stage to the lighting, the music and the front‑of‑house crew. This production left every member of the audience enthralled, which was a wonderful thing to witness. I’d like to congratulate everyone involved in a show worthy of the many accolades the show team has already received.”
The musical tells the remarkable true story of how the small town of Gander, Newfoundland welcomed nearly 7,000 stranded passengers when 38 planes were unexpectedly diverted there following the 9/11 attacks.
Emma Cassim, Director of the show and Director of Drama at the school who celebrated her 40th production at Burgess Hill Girls reflected on bringing the musical to life:
“Even in the darkest moments, kindness and community can prevail. Come From Away reminded us of the extraordinary capacity for empathy that exists in all of us; something this remarkable group of students embodied throughout the entire run. This production demanded total focus, unity and trust, and the cast rose to the challenge with energy, precision and extraordinary generosity.”
She highlighted the show’s ensemble‑driven nature, intricate harmonies, and the collaborative storytelling that relied on each performer contributing at every moment.
She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the creative team:
“My sincere thanks to our wonderful Musical Director, David Black, our Production Designer and Manager, Dan Pook‑Barnes, and our Choreographer, Bethany Gavin; working with her had been a 15‑year dream in the making.”
PRESS RELEASE ENDS
About Burgess Hill Girls
Burgess Hill Girls is an independent school with a longstanding tradition of producing ambitious, high‑quality theatrical performances.
The Drama Department emphasises creativity, courage and collaboration; values embodied in this year’s musical.
About Come From Away
Conceived from interviews conducted in Gander on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, Come From Away opened on Broadway in 2017, running until 2022 with 1,669 performances, and triumphed in London with 1,048 performances at the Phoenix Theatre, winning multiple Olivier Awards including Best New Musical.
Licensing Note
Amateur and school performance rights are licensed by Music Theatre International (MTI).
FOR MEDIA ENQUIRIES CONTACT:
Anne Pithie, Director of Marketing, Burgess Hill Girls
T: 01444 241050
