COME FROM AWAY Celebrates the Resilient Human Spirit

The 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States had an impact felt around the world, including the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, situated next to a large but nearly abandoned international airport. Come From Away, by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, tells the story of the people of Gander and their unexpected international visitors with music, heart, and a sense of purpose and compassion that resonates with immediacy and intensity almost 25 years after the attack. The Muny’s gorgeous production captures the awestruck yet determined response of the townsfolk and their “come from away” visitors with a moving score and storytelling that’s poetic and, reassuringly, hopeful.

In the moments of pandemonium after the attacks on the Twin Towers and Pentagon, a call went out grounding all air traffic in, to, or from the United States. The large, but little-used airport on the island of Newfoundland, just outside the town of Gander, was alerted that dozens of airplanes with hundreds, no a few thousand, passengers (and about 20 animals) were heading their way. The town sprang into action and, for five days, played host to travelers from different countries and backgrounds with various personal, medical, and spiritual needs. For their part the visitors, who had no idea why their planes had to make this sudden, unscheduled stop, attempted to make sense of what was happening and adapt to the situation. Overcoming language and cultural barriers, mistrust and misinformation, and fear and uncertainty, the islanders and their visitors ended up forming bonds that remain strong to this day.

Come From Away is a true ensemble piece as every member of the featured cast plays several roles, both as islanders and visitors, with additional ensemble members in singing-only roles. The characters, created from in-depth interviews with the townsfolk, passengers, and crew from the flights, are well developed, with telling details and personalities. They are brought to life with empathy and vibrancy by a cast that includes Adam Heller, as the overwhelmed but compassionate mayor of Gander and others, Heidi Blickenstaff as the barrier-breaking pilot Beverly and others, John Bolton as the English traveler Nick and Ashley Brown as American Diane, who fall in love, and others, Andrea Burns as Bonnie, who cares for the animal passengers, and others, Trey Deluna and Jason Tam as boyfriends Kevin J. and Kevin T. and others, Tamika Lawrence and Zoe Vonder Haar as mothers of firefighters who bond unexpectedly and others, Jacob Keith Watson as the local police and others, Alan H. Green as Bob and others, and Abigail Isom as Gail and others.

The story of Come From Away is powerful on its own and effectively enhanced by narrative songs, particularly the anthemic “Welcome to the Rock,” the reverent “Prayer,” the tender “I Am Here,” the soaring “Me and the Sky,” and the romantic “Stop the World.” Pointed, and at times poignant, staging, inventive and effective set, lighting, and video design that makes the most of The Muny’s turntable, smart choreography that moves with the set, and a committed, fully connected cast combine with the music to create a moving and emotionally compelling evening of theater that will likely linger in your mind and memory long after the final bow. The Muny production expertly captures the resilience and determination of the islanders and their visitors, as well as the kindness that often emerges in times of tragedy. Suitable for all but the youngest and most sensitive audience members, Come From Away is a tribute to the human spirit and emotionally compelling storytelling. 

With its first two shows, The Muny demonstrates its ability to appeal to a broad audience with musicals that cover a wide range of experience and emotion. Bring It On, with its choreographed athleticism and acrobatic moves from the University of Kentucky cheerleaders as well as infectiously bright and charismatic leads in Jonalyn Saxer and Kennedy Holmes, is upbeat, enthusiastic, and underscored with relatable, contemporary conflicts that merit reflection. Come From Away is a story of people brought together by tragedy and the many small, individual stories that create the unconventional community. The musical is dotted with moments of distrust, fear, confusion, and personal loss, but the sad scenes are countered with genuine connection and unexpected joy that leaves us hopeful and uplifted. Careful attention to detail and compelling stories are testament to The Muny’s well-deserved and earned Tony award, ensuring this reviewer eagerly anticipates the rest of the season, which continues with Frozen, opening July 6. As the familiar saying goes, I encourage you to bring your family and friends and “Meet me at The Muny.”