“It’s a story about kindness” – Hayley takes centre stage in Come From Away at the Paget Rooms

When local teacher Hayley Toms takes to the stage this March, she’ll be stepping into the shoes of a real-life trailblazer.

Hayley, who is a teacher in the Vale, plays Beverley, a character based on pioneering pilot Beverley Bass, one of the first female captains for American Airlines, in Concept Players’ upcoming production of the hit musical Come From Away at the Paget Rooms, Penarth, from 4th to 7th March.

It’s a role that demands heart, humour and powerhouse vocals, particularly during the show’s emotional standout song “Me and the Sky”, which charts Beverley’s lifelong love of flying and the determination that helped her break through barriers in a male-dominated industry.

For Hayley, it’s a part that feels both inspiring and deeply personal.

“Beverley’s story is incredible,” she says. “She’s funny, strong and so passionate about what she does. Singing ‘Me and the Sky’ is such a special moment because it’s about chasing your dreams but it’s also about resilience when life throws the unexpected at you. I think audiences will really connect with her.”

That “unexpected” moment comes on 11 September 2001, when Beverley’s plane, along with 37 others, is forced to land in the small Canadian town of Gander after US airspace suddenly closes.

Almost overnight, nearly 7,000 stranded passengers find themselves taken in by a community of just a few thousand people. What follows forms the heart of Come From Away: an extraordinary true story of strangers becoming friends, neighbours opening their home, and small acts of kindness making a world of difference.

While the subject might sound heavy, the show is anything but sombre. Known for its quick-fire comedy, toe-tapping folk-inspired music and fast-paced storytelling, Come From Away has built a reputations as one of the most uplifting and feel-good musicals of recent years.

“It’s surprisingly funny,” Hayley adds. “People expect it to be sad, but you laugh so much. It’s really about hope and community and that feels like such a lovely message to share, especially with a local audience.”

That community spirit is something Concept Players know well. The theatre group has long been known for bringing volunteers, performers and audiences together, and this ensemble-driven show is a perfect match for their ethos.

With a cast playing multiple roles and working closely together on stage, the production mirrors the togetherness at the centre of the story itself.

Audiences can expect laughter, moving moments and a night of theatre that leaves you feeling just a little bit lighter.

Performance Details:

Venue: The Paget Rooms, Victoria Road, Penarth

Dates: Wednesday 4th March to Saturday 7th March 2026

Time: 7.30pm (doors open 7.00pm)

Tickets: £18.00

Tickets from Ticketsource: 0333 666 3366 or online www.ticketsource.co.uk/conceptplayers