A member of a Cumbrian musical theatre society has shared her experiences as cabin crew on the days surrounding 9/11.
Workington Amateur Operatic Society is preparing to perform Come From Away, a musical that celebrates the generosity of the people of Newfoundland, Canada when thousands of people were diverted to their small island following the terrorist attacks.
Karen Pirt is leading the wardrobe team responsible for costuming the show. She was working as cabin crew at the time and recalls watching the events from Tokyo with colleagues from American Airlines and British Airlines.
Karen said the events affected her for months and years, especially every time she boarded a new flight.
She said: “When I heard we were doing Come From Away, I wasn’t interested in being involved.
“But, having learned more about the show, I realised it’s actually the opposite to what I thought.
“It’s really a story about kindness, generosity and friendship in the aftermath of those horrific events. It’s really uplifting.”
Come From Away is the second in a series of performances put on by Workington Amateur Operatic Society as it celebrates their 120th anniversary year in 2026.
It is a heartwarming tale of how the town of Gander’s population almost doubled overnight, and how strangers from all over the world were welcomed, housed and fed by the unfailingly generous people of the town.
Come From Away will be performed at the Carnegie Theatre from March 11 to March 14
Tickets are available from the Carnegie box office online or by calling 01900 602122.
