Come from Away

An inspiring tale of hope, courage and radical human kindness, Come From Away tells the remarkable story of 36 planes diverted to Newfoundland on September 11, 2001 after terrorists attacked the twin towers and pentagon. TheatreWorks’ new production brings this story to the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts with all the polish you’d expect from a Broadway touring production.

There are lots of great musicals — ones that make you laugh, or cry or gasp with delight. But my favorite musicals remind you that nothing is impossible when good people band together. Come From Away is a perfect example of that kind of musical. 

The community of Gander was once centered around its airport, an important refueling stop en route between Europe and North America. But when jets became able to get across the Atlantic Ocean without a stop to refuel, the small Newfoundland airport dwindled in importance — and its town along with it. 

On September 11, 2001, however, planes had to be grounded and the tiny town almost doubled in population when 7,000 visitors suddenly needed food, shelter and bedding for days until American airspace reopened. The locals band together to support their unexpected guests in ways that epitomise hope, empathy and the indomitable power of the human spirit. 

The musical, Come From Away, tells the true story of individuals in Gander — the locals and the rerouted visitors — as they deal with the fallout of tragedy, uncertainty about the future and the unexpected joys of community.

TheatreWorks is the first regional theater company in Northern California to produce this internationally-acclaimed show, and it does so with panache. With tight choreography and impeccable ensemble work, this production is equal to anything I’d expect from a touring Broadway cast.

Everyone in the cast plays multiple characters, slipping in and out of accents, costume pieces and storylines. This type of show makes a strong ensemble paramount. It also makes any weak links stand out like sore thumbs. The cast of this production did a fabulous job, flowing around each other like water as they changed scenes and characters, often while still on stage. 

That stated, a few actors stood out for their particularly strong vocals. Performers including Heather Orth, Alison Ewing, Dawn L. Troupe and especially Nick Nakashima who even without many solo singing lines, stood out as one of the best voices on stage. 

Whether you’ve never seen Come From Away before, or you’ve seen the professional recording a million times, TheatreWorks’ production is a treat you won’t want to miss. 

Come from Away

By Irene Sankoff and David Hein

Run time: 1 hour 40 minutes; no intermission

Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro Street, Mountain View

Tickets: theatreworks.org, (877) 662-8976

Photos courtesy of Kevin Berne.