2027-28 Proposal: Come From Away

Come From Away

by Irene Sankoff and David Hein

Directed by Mary Jeanne Reynales

Music Direction by Jim Martinez

Show Synopsis 

Come From Away is based on the true story of the time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world. What started as an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to Gander’s airstrip on September 11, 2001. Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family.

Vision Statement: As a theatre buff, every year I watch the TONY AWARDS on TV. In 2017, I jumped up from the couch clapping at the end of the song WELOME TO THE ROCK, the opening number in a new musical, COME FROM AWAY. "This, this is the show I want to direct," I told my husband, David! During a trip to New York in November of that same year, we had the opportunity to see the show on Broadway with its original cast. The audience there, many of them waving Newfoundland flags and wearing plaid jackets, hooted, applauded, and stood for the entire closing curtain and musical wrap. It was a magical experience, we laughed and we cried.

COME FROM AWAY is based on the true story of the first time in history when the US air space was closed following the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center--a time when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, played host to the world--a time when an average day in a small town turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the world, were diverted to Gander. Not bothered by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander fed, housed, clothed, and then cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar, and turned strangers into friends. They even cared for all the animals aboard in crates. COME FROM AWAY is about people showing us what humanity is at its best, and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family, spreading a message of kindness, unity, and resilience.

With a flexible cast, (12-16), a small ensemble of live musicians on stage, (8-10), minimal costume challenges, everyday props, and a stripped-down set, this show is guaranteed to be successful while warming the hearts of our theater patrons.

PS, no live animals will be on stage.