Come From Away Tickets

Finding Light in Dark Times: Come From Away 

In times of crisis, humanity often rises to the occasion, displaying acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity that inspire and move us. One such story, born out of the tragedy of September 11, 2001, is captured in the musical Come From Away. With its heartwarming narrative, powerful music, and vibrant characters, Come From Away has taken the world by storm, earning critical acclaim and touching the hearts of audiences across the globe. This blog post delves into the history of the show, the remarkable talent behind it, the significance of its music, and what to expect from its touring performances.

The History of Come From Away

Come From Away is a Canadian musical that tells the true story of how a small town in Newfoundland, Gander, welcomed over 7,000 stranded passengers after 38 planes were diverted to the Gander International Airport during the chaos of September 11, 2001. The town’s population nearly doubled overnight, and the residents opened their homes, hearts, and kitchens to the "plane people" in an unprecedented display of generosity and compassion.

The idea for the show came from Canadian husband-and-wife writing duo Irene Sankoff and David Hein. After hearing about the incredible events that transpired in Gander, they traveled to Newfoundland for the 10th anniversary of 9/11, where they met and interviewed the real people who had been involved—both the residents and the stranded travelers. These stories became the backbone of the musical, offering a glimpse into how communities can come together during even the darkest times.

The show first premiered at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, in 2013, before being fine-tuned for subsequent productions. It debuted on Broadway at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre on March 12, 2017, and quickly became a sensation. Critics and audiences alike were captivated by its ability to find hope and humanity in a global tragedy. Come From Away went on to earn seven Tony Award nominations and won the award for Best Direction of a Musical. Its success on Broadway led to productions around the world, from London’s West End to Australia, and even a filmed version released on Apple TV+ in 2021.

Notable Actors and Actresses

One of the unique aspects of Come From Away is its ensemble cast. Each actor plays multiple roles, switching between characters seamlessly, which brings a fast-paced, dynamic energy to the stage. This ensemble-based approach highlights the collective efforts of both the Gander residents and the stranded passengers.

Some notable actors and actresses who have contributed to the success of Come From Away include:

• Jenn Colella: A standout from the original Broadway cast, Colella played Beverly Bass, the first female captain for American Airlines, and other characters. Her portrayal of Bass, particularly in the powerful solo "Me and the Sky," garnered critical acclaim and earned her a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical.

• Chad Kimball: Another member of the original cast, Kimball portrayed several characters, including a stranded New Yorker. His performance, full of heart and humor, helped anchor the show’s more emotional moments.

• Petrina Bromley: A native of Newfoundland, Bromley played the role of Bonnie, an animal shelter worker who takes on the responsibility of caring for the animals aboard the grounded planes. Bromley’s performance has been praised for its authenticity and connection to the real-life events.

• Joel Hatch: A veteran of the stage, Hatch portrayed Claude Elliott, the mayor of Gander, who is tasked with organizing the town’s response to the sudden influx of people. Hatch’s performance captures both the weight of responsibility and the warmth of leadership.

The show has seen many talented performers take on these roles in various productions, each bringing their own interpretation to the characters. Despite the rotating cast, the heart and soul of Come From Away remains consistent, largely due to the strong foundation laid by these original performers.

The Music of Come From Away

At the heart of Come From Away is its music, composed by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. The score is a blend of Celtic, folk, and rock influences, with a distinct Newfoundland sound that honors the setting of the story. The music of Come From Away is as much a character in the show as the actors on stage, providing the emotional heartbeat of the narrative.

Songs like "Welcome to the Rock," "Me and the Sky," and "38 Planes" capture the urgency, fear, and eventual resilience of both the townspeople and the stranded passengers. The band, which plays live on stage, incorporates traditional Newfoundland instruments like the fiddle, bodhrán, and accordion, giving the music an authentic, grounded feel.

The most significant musical number in the show, "Me and the Sky," tells the personal story of Beverly Bass, the American Airlines captain, reflecting on her career and the shock of 9/11. This song stands out not only because of its soaring melody but also because of its emotional depth, offering insight into one of the real-life figures central to the story.

The Come From Away Tour

The global success of Come From Away has led to numerous international productions and tours, bringing the show’s message of hope and unity to audiences worldwide. In addition to the Broadway production, Come From Away has been performed in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many other countries.

The North American tour of Come From Away continues to be a highlight, with stops in major cities across the United States and Canada. The touring production has maintained the high standards of the original Broadway show, with stellar performances, impeccable staging, and the same heartwarming message of community.

Fans of the show who have seen it on Broadway often remark that the touring production loses none of its magic, thanks in part to the strong direction by Tony Award-winner Christopher Ashley and the meticulous attention to detail in each aspect of the show’s staging and performance.

If you’re lucky enough to catch Come From Away on tour, you can expect an emotional, uplifting experience that will stay with you long after the final curtain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Attending a Come From Away Performance

How long is the show?

Come From Away runs for approximately 100 minutes with no intermission. The continuous storytelling format adds to the immersive experience of the show.

Is the show appropriate for children?

The show is generally suitable for older children (ages 10 and up). While it deals with the events of 9/11, the content is handled sensitively, focusing more on the human stories and acts of kindness rather than the tragic details.

Can I expect to hear the original cast in touring productions?

While the original Broadway cast is no longer touring, the performers in the touring production are highly talented and have been carefully chosen to maintain the same energy and heart as the original.

Do I need to know about the events of 9/11 to understand the show?

You do not need to be intimately familiar with the events of 9/11 to appreciate Come From Away. The show focuses more on the aftermath and the kindness shown by the residents of Gander. However, some knowledge of the day’s events may enhance your understanding of the context.

Is there an intermission?

No, there is no intermission during the show. The 100-minute runtime flows continuously, which adds to the emotional impact of the storytelling.

Is there a live band during the show?

Yes, there is a live band on stage throughout the performance. The band plays traditional Newfoundland instruments, adding an authentic sound to the show’s music.

Are there any songs from the show that are particularly well-known?

Yes, "Welcome to the Rock," which opens the show, and "Me and the Sky," a standout solo performance, are two of the most well-known songs from the musical. Both songs reflect key themes of resilience, hope, and unity.

How does the set design contribute to the storytelling?

The set design is minimalist but incredibly effective. Chairs, tables, and a revolving stage are used creatively to represent different locations, from airplanes to Gander’s local pub. The simple set allows the actors to transition seamlessly between scenes and characters.

Are there any emotional moments in the show?

Yes, Come From Away is an emotionally charged show, particularly as it deals with the events surrounding 9/11. However, it balances heavier moments with humor, warmth, and uplifting themes of community and resilience.

Where can I buy merchandise for the show?

Merchandise is available for purchase at the theater where the show is performed. You can also find official Come From Away merchandise online through the show’s website.

Come From Away is more than just a musical; it’s a testament to the power of human kindness and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you’re watching it on Broadway, on tour, or at a local production, you’re sure to leave the theater with a renewed sense of hope and faith in humanity. With its heartwarming story, incredible performances, and evocative music, Come From Away stands out as one of the most unique and impactful shows of our time.

If you haven’t seen it yet, don’t miss your chance to experience this extraordinary musical and be reminded that even in the darkest times, we can come together to lift each other up.