4.0 out of 5 star rating
I recently had the privilege of witnessing Come From Away at the New Wimbledon Theatre, and it was truly a heartwarming and enlightening experience that left me with a renewed sense of hope for humanity. As someone who has lived through my fair share of trials and tribulations, I can’t help but be touched by stories of kindness and unity in the face of adversity.
Few people are unaware of the 9/11 attacks, but if you haven’t watched Come From Away, you might not know about the 38 planes that were redirected to Gander, Newfoundland in the aftermath. For five days, this small town’s 10,000 residents opened their homes and hearts to over 6,500 unexpected guests, whom they affectionately called “come from aways,” a term for visitors from beyond the island.
This story isn’t instantly thought of as a candidate for a musical adaptation, but Irene Sankoff and David Hein have managed to make it work with humor and emotional depth. They interviewed locals and passengers on the 10th anniversary of the attacks in Gander, which means that many of the characters and their stories in Come From Away are based on real people and events, although some details may have been combined.
As a captivated movie critic, I find myself eagerly anticipating the UK and Ireland tour of this enchanting musical that first graced Broadway in 2017 and later found its home on London’s West End in 2019. In this exhilarating production, the opening number “Welcome to the Rock” sets the stage for the diverse 12-member cast who masterfully portray a staggering 84 characters by cleverly changing accessories. The story unfolds through various viewpoints, making it an immersive narrative journey featuring both the island inhabitants and the “plane people,” as they are affectionately named.
As a movie enthusiast, I find myself deeply moved by the story of Claude Elliott, once the esteemed mayor of Gander (playing the role himself), the compassionate school teacher Beulah Davis (portrayed by Amanda Henderson), and Bonnie Harris (Rosie Glossop), who tirelessly dedicated her time to the local animal shelter in Gander. This extraordinary trio took care of the 19 animals that were aboard the planes, a diverse menagerie ranging from canines and felines to our unique primate counterparts – two bonobos.
Regarding the characters, it’s hard not to enjoy the tale of English oil executive Nick Marson, portrayed by Daniel Crowder, and Texan Diane Gray, played by Kirsty Hoiles, who kindle a romance in Gander. Meanwhile, the LA-based duo Kevin Jung (Jamal Zulfiqar) and Kevin Tuerff (Mark Dugdale) bring plenty of humorous scenes to the table. This production is an exceptional ensemble piece, with each character truly standing out.
The largest mobile elements on stage are multifunctional chairs, used both as bus and plane seating. The musicians are strategically placed on stage and frequently collaborate with the actors during lively group performances.
The residents of Gander consistently go above and beyond, offering food, clothing, shelter, and comforting words to their unexpected visitors, despite forgoing sleep and asking for nothing in return. This town is a place where trust is abundant – you can leave your door open and feel secure with your possessions. The kindness and generosity of the people here are unparalleled. One of the most memorable moments in the musical is Screech In, where newcomers become honorary Newfoundlanders by drinking a shot of Screech (a type of rum) and kissing a codfish – a tradition that everyone who arrives here must experience.
In the midst of laughter and cheerfulness, I feel some of the more poignant scenes in the musical could’ve been given more space to linger, such as Hannah O’Rourke (Bree Smith) being unable to reach her firefighter son in New York, the strained relationship between the two Kevins, and the initial shock over the news of 9/11. The character of world-renowned Muslim chef Ali (Zulfiqar) experiences Islamophobia amidst a diverse gathering of people from different religions, languages, and culinary tastes, not always living in complete harmony.
Captain Beverley Bass (portrayed by Sara Poyzer) was the airline pilot who received orders to make an emergency landing at Gander International Airport on September 11, 2001. In the captivating biographical film “Me and the Sky,” we follow her story as she becomes the first female captain for American Airlines, but the tragic events of 9/11 cast a shadow over her deep-seated passion for aviation.
In the song “Blankets and Bedding,” the line “I can’t watch the news anymore” feels particularly relevant today, as we’re living in a time of heightened tension and unease. However, even though life isn’t always “sunshine and rainbows,” especially not in our increasingly divided world, the musical Come From Away offers a ray of optimism and hope. Though it may seem overly optimistic at times, its message is still uplifting and reaffirming – and it serves as a reminder that humanity has the capacity for kindness and understanding.
To those who harbor a hint of skepticism or pessimism, the question might arise, “Could this be too good to be real?” However, let me clarify, it’s indeed true. Or more directly, you might wonder, “Are people really like this?” Surprisingly, yes, they are.
During the after-performance address, it was shared that theatre blogger Lydia Greatrix was invited onstage. She’s traveling with the show’s UK tour and making charitable contributions in each location she visits as a tribute to her friend Laura Townsend, who watched Come From Away over 150 times worldwide, inspired by the Pay It Forward 9/11 movement and the generous people of Newfoundland.
What a delightful program it must be if it sparks such warmth! The lesson here is that each of us possesses the ability to bring more kindness into our world. In essence, we can all strive to embody the compassionate spirit that Newfoundlanders are known for.
When and where can I see Come From Away?
Come From Away is currently showing at the New Wimbledon Theatre until Saturday 12th October.
After that the show will be heading on tour to the following:
- 15th – 26th Oct 2024 – Norwich, Theatre Royal
- 5th – 9th Nov 2024 – Wolverhampton, Grand Theatre
- 12th – 16th Nov 2024 – Canterbury, Marlowe Theatre
- 19th – 23rd Nov 2024 – Chichester, Festival Theatre
- 26th – 30th Nov 2024 – Milton Keynes, Theatre
- 3rd Dec 2024 – 5th Jan 2025 – Salford, The Lowry
How to get Come From Away tickets
At ATG Tickets, you can find the dates for both Wimbledon and Milton Keynes events. If those options aren’t suitable for you, you may have to visit the individual venue websites instead.
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2024-10-11 12:47