Excitment building as Portlaoise Musical Society set to take flight

Excitement is building as Portlaoise Musical Society enters its final week of rehearsals for this year’s highly anticipated production of the internationally acclaimed musical Come From Away. 

The show will take to the stage of the Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise from Saturday, November 15 to Saturday, November 22.

Following a proud legacy of staging award-winning musical theatre, Portlaoise Musical Society is set to bring to local audiences a heartfelt, uplifting, and powerful story that has captured hearts right across the globe. Come From Away tells the remarkable true story of how the people of Gander, Newfoundland welcomed 7,000 stranded passengers into their homes and community when 38 planes were unexpectedly diverted there following the events of 9/11.

This year’s production features a talented cast of passionate performers from across the Midlands and the four corners of Ireland— all coming together to share this extraordinary story of kindness, humanity, and hope. With a dynamic ensemble, live orchestra, and a dedicated creative team, audiences can expect an emotional, high-energy, and unforgettable night at the theatre.

Chairperson of Portlaoise Musical Society,  Angi McNulty said: “We are honoured to bring this extraordinary musical to Laois. As we enter our final week of rehearsals, the excitement and energy among the cast is incredible. Come From Away celebrates community, compassion and resilience — values we are proud to reflect within our own society.”

PRO and cast member Helen Flynn added: “This show is truly unique — fast-paced, heartfelt and inspiring. Our cast has poured their hearts into telling this story, and we know audiences will leave uplifted and moved by what they experience.”

In keeping with the real-life nature of this story, Portlaoise Musical Society was honoured to welcome members of the Brophy family from Portlaoise to one of their rehearsals this month. The Brophys, who were passengers on one of the planes that were diverted to Gander on September 11th 2001, kindly shared their personal experiences and insights with the cast and production team, offering a powerful reminder of the humanity at the heart of this musical. Their visit deeply moved the company and reinforced the importance of telling this true story with care, compassion, and respect. 

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Performances will run nightly, from Saturday, November 15 to  Saturday, November 22. Tickets are expected to sell quickly, and early booking is strongly recommended. Tickets are available from the box office in the Dunamaise theatre or from Dunamaise.ie