Pair in 9/11 Lyric musical

Pair in 9/11 Lyric musical

27 August 2025

TWO local actors are to take to the stage of the Lyric Theatre in Belfast next week.

Gareth McGreevy, from Saul, and Emma Nugent, from Newcastle, are in the cast of the St Agnes’ Choral Society’s production of the award-

winning musical, Come From Away, which runs from September 4-13.

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.

This is the St Agnes’ Choral Society’s first production in the Lyric Theatre and it is also the Irish amateur premiere of the musical.

Emma plays the role of Beulah, the principal of the school in Gander which opens its doors to the passengers.

Gareth plays Garth, a local bus driver who was on strike at the time of September 11 in Newfoundland, as well as a passenger, Kevin T, inspired by the real life Kevin Tuerff, who set up a charity called Pay it Forward for which the production will be raising money. 

Gareth, who is chairperson, of the society, said: “It is a great honour for us to be staging the Irish premiere of this beautiful show.

“It has everything – heart, laughter, emotion and most of all kindness at its core. The audience will be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions.”

Director Rachel Logan-Fee said: “Come From Away is unlike anything we’ve done before. “It’s raw, real and deeply moving - but also unexpectedly joyful.

“The story speaks to the soul of Irish people too; 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. 

Tickets are on sale now and available from www.lyrictheatre.co.uk.