As the nation marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Keegan Theatre and Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS) will partner together to bring the community together through music, remembrance, and reflection with the world premiere of A Beautiful Blue Morning Sky, a new chamber song cycle honoring the lives changed that day. Proceeds from the September 11 – 13 performances will benefit NVFS and its work strengthening individuals and families across Northern Virginia.
Written as an emotional retelling of September 11, A Beautiful Blue Morning Sky, weaves together personal stories and lived experiences through music and storytelling. As the performance reflects on the lasting impact of the attacks, it also honors the spirit of compassion and community that inspired long-term recovery efforts, including NVFS’ work through the Survivors’ Fund Project.
“One of the most enduring lessons from the Survivors’ Fund Project is that meaningful recovery takes time, and that each person’s needs are different,” said Stephanie Berkowitz, president and chief executive officer at Northern Virginia Family Services. “We learned to listen closely, understand each person’s circumstances, and adapt our support as needs changed over time. That experience continues to inform NVFS’ trauma-informed care today. We’re grateful to partner with Keegan Theatre to remember those impacted and carry those lessons forward.”
Following the September 11 attacks, NVFS led the Survivors’ Fund Project, a long-term recovery effort designed to support individuals and families affected by the attacks. The project paired financial assistance with intensive case management. Over the course of nearly seven years, the Survivors’ Fund Project helped individuals and families access the resources, guidance, and personalized support they needed to rebuild their lives. While the Survivors’ Fund concluded in 2008, its legacy continues to shape NVFS's trauma-informed approach to helping individuals and families heal and recover.
“After learning about the Survivors' Fund Project and NVFS’ role in helping to shape the immediate and long-term care for those affected by the Pentagon attacks, partnering with NVFS felt like the obvious choice,” said Autumn Tustin, director of community engagement at The Keegan Theatre. “Often, art is able to express the inexpressible; each of these songs tells the story of someone who experienced heartache, giving us a small glimpse into the inner life of those NVFS helped back then and continues to help today. We couldn't have asked for a better, more natural partnership of art and community care.”
A Beautiful Blue Morning Sky will take place September 11 – 13 at Keegan Theatre. Tickets are available now on a “Pay What You Can basis,” with all proceeds benefiting NVFS. For tickets and additional event information visit The Keegan Theatre website here.
“One of the most enduring lessons from the Survivors’ Fund Project is that meaningful recovery takes time, and that each person’s needs are different. We learned to listen closely, understand each person’s circumstances, and adapt our support as needs changed over time. That experience continues to inform NVFS’ trauma-informed care today. We’re grateful to partner with Keegan Theatre to remember those impacted and carry those lessons forward.”
