Come From Away, the hit musical detailing the true story of 7,000 airline passengers stranded in a small Newfoundland town following the September 11 attacks, continues to captivate global audiences through its unique blend of community resilience and musical storytelling. Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, the production highlights how the residents of Gander opened their homes and hearts to stranded travelers when U.S. airspace closed in 2001.
The Real Events Behind Come From Away
Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the Federal Aviation Administration ordered the grounding of all flights in United States airspace. This directive forced 38 commercial aircraft carrying approximately 6,579 passengers and crew members to divert to Gander International Airport in Newfoundland, Canada, nearly doubling the town’s population overnight. According to municipal records and historical accounts, local residents mobilized immediately, organizing food, shelter, medicine, and comfort for the unexpected international visitors over several days.
Musical Development and Global Reach
Creators Irene Sankoff and David Hein visited Gander during the 10th-anniversary commemorations in 2011 to interview residents and returning passengers, known as “come from aways” and “plane people.” Their research culminated in a tightly paced, 100-minute musical featuring an ensemble cast where actors seamlessly transition between playing terrified travelers and resourceful Newfoundland locals. Following regional tryouts, the production opened on Broadway at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in March 2017, earning critical acclaim and a Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical for Christopher Ashley.
Production Comparison and Legacy
| Production Milestone | Details |
|---|---|
| Original Creative Team | Book, music, and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein |
| Broadway Premiere | March 12, 2017, at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre |
| Core Setting | Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, September 2001 |
Unlike traditional jukebox musicals, Come From Away relies on an energetic Celtic-rock score to propel its documentary-style narrative forward. International stagings in Toronto, London’s West End, Australia, and various national tours have cemented the show’s status as a modern theatrical staple, praised by critics for its empathetic portrayal of human kindness during a global crisis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the characters in Come From Away based on real people?
Yes, the characters are composites and direct representations of real individuals, including Gander’s mayor at the time, Claude Elliott, local resident Beulah Davis, and Beverley Bass, who served as the first female captain for American Airlines.
How long is the stage performance?
The musical runs approximately one hour and forty minutes without an intermission, mirroring the breathless urgency and emotional compression of the five days grounded in Gander.
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