The world of musical theater has been graced with numerous productions that have left indelible marks on the hearts of audiences worldwide. Among these, “Come from Away” stands out as a beacon of hope, unity, and the indomitable human spirit. This article delves into the essence of “Come from Away,” exploring its narrative, historical context, and the elements that make it a compelling and inspiring musical experience.
Introduction to Come from Away
“Come from Away” is a musical with a book, music, and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. It is based on the true story of the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, and its incredible response to the events following the 9/11 attacks in the United States. The story revolves around the town’s efforts to accommodate and care for thousands of stranded airline passengers from around the world, whose flights were diverted to Gander due to the closure of U.S. airspace. This act of kindness and generosity is the core of the musical, exploring themes of community, culture, and the bonds that form between people from different walks of life.
Historical Context: The Real-Life Events
Understanding the historical context in which “Come from Away” is set is crucial to appreciating the depth and significance of the story. On September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. led to the closure of U.S. airspace. As a result, numerous international flights were diverted to the nearest available airports. Gander, with its large airport, became one of the primary destinations for these flights. The town, with a population of less than 10,000, found itself hosting over 6,500 passengers and crew members, nearly doubling its population overnight.
The real-life events that unfolded in Gander are a testament to human kindness and resilience. The town’s residents opened their homes, schools, and community centers to provide shelter, food, and comfort to the stranded travelers. This spontaneous outpouring of warmth and generosity, despite the challenges and uncertainties of the time, is the foundation upon which the musical “Come from Away” is built.
The Musical: Characters, Music, and Storytelling
The musical masterfully weaves together the stories of the residents of Gander and the “come from aways” (as the locals referred to the stranded passengers). It features a diverse ensemble cast, with characters representing different nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds. Through the characters’ experiences, the musical explores the initial confusion, fear, and misunderstandings, gradually giving way to friendships, love, and a deep sense of community.
The music in “Come from Away” is a vibrant tapestry of folk, rock, and Celtic influences, reflecting the cultural heritage of Newfoundland. Each song is carefully crafted to advance the plot, reveal character, or underscore the emotional depth of a moment. From the lively opening number, “Welcome to the Rock,” to the poignant “Screech In,” the music is an integral part of the storytelling, making the audience feel the highs and lows of the characters’ journeys.
Themes and Messages
At its heart, “Come from Away” is a musical about the power of human connection in the face of adversity. It highlights hospitality, kindness, and the breaking down of cultural and linguistic barriers. The story shows how, even in the darkest of times, communities can come together, support one another, and find moments of joy and laughter. The musical also touches on themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of understanding and embracing differences.
One of the most compelling aspects of “Come from Away” is its portrayal of the human capacity for resilience and generosity. The residents of Gander, who could have been overwhelmed by the sudden influx of strangers, instead chose to open their hearts and homes. This act of collective kindness serves as a powerful reminder of the good that can be achieved when people come together with empathy and compassion.
Production and Reception
“Come from Away” premiered in La Jolla, California, in 2015, before moving to Broadway in 2017. The musical received widespread critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling, memorable characters, and uplifting message. It was nominated for seven Tony Awards and won one for Best Direction of a Musical. The production has since been seen in numerous cities around the world, including London’s West End, and has become one of the most successful and beloved musicals of its time.
The musical’s impact extends beyond the theater. It has inspired countless stories of kindness and community, reminding audiences of the importance of human connection in a world often divided by differences. “Come from Away” has also played a significant role in promoting tourism to Newfoundland, introducing the unique culture and beauty of the region to a global audience.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The legacy of “Come from Away” can be seen in its enduring popularity and the conversations it has sparked about community, compassion, and the human condition. The musical has been recognized not only for its artistic merit but also for its social impact, inspiring initiatives and discussions about the importance of empathy, understanding, and kindness.
In celebration of the musical’s success and the real-life events it portrays, the town of Gander has become a symbol of hope and hospitality. Visitors from around the world flock to see the places and meet the people who inspired the story, further enriching the local community and reinforcing the bonds formed between Gander and the “come from aways” two decades ago.
Conclusion: A Timeless Story of Hope
“Come from Away” is more than a musical; it is a testament to the power of human kindness, a reminder of the strength found in community, and a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit. Through its engaging narrative, memorable characters, and uplifting music, it tells a story that transcends borders, cultures, and time. As a piece of theater, “Come from Away” is a masterpiece, but as a reflection of humanity at its best, it is truly unforgettable.
In a world that often seems divided, “Come from Away” offers a message of hope and unity, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, there is always the potential for kindness, generosity, and love to prevail. This musical, inspired by the true events in Gander, Newfoundland, after 9/11, stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when people come together, embracing their differences and celebrating their shared humanity.
What is the story of Come from Away?
The story of Come from Away is based on real events that took place in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada, in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. When US airspace was closed, 38 planes were diverted to Gander, bringing with them over 7,000 stranded passengers. The town, with a population of just 10,000, came together to provide shelter, food, and comfort to the travelers, forming bonds and forging friendships that would last a lifetime. The musical weaves together the stories of the passengers and the townspeople, exploring themes of hope, resilience, and community.
The musical features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique story and struggles. From the initially hesitant but ultimately welcoming residents of Gander, to the passengers from different parts of the world who find themselves brought together by circumstance, the characters in Come from Away are complex and multi-dimensional. The story is told through a blend of music, drama, and comedy, with a folk-rock score that incorporates traditional Newfoundland music and modern styles. The result is a powerful and uplifting musical that celebrates the human spirit and the connections that bind us together.
What inspired the creators of Come from Away?
The creators of Come from Away, Irene Sankoff and David Hein, were inspired by the true story of the town of Gander and its response to the 9/11 attacks. They were drawn to the story’s themes of hope, kindness, and community, and saw an opportunity to create a musical that would celebrate the human spirit. The couple conducted extensive interviews with the people of Gander and the passengers who were stranded there, gathering stories and anecdotes that would form the basis of the musical. They also drew on their own experiences as Canadians, and their sense of pride and admiration for the people of Gander.
Sankoff and Hein’s inspiration for Come from Away was also driven by a desire to create a musical that would be both entertaining and thought-provoking. They wanted to craft a story that would explore the complexities of human relationships and the ways in which people come together in times of crisis. The result is a musical that is both a tribute to the people of Gander and a universal story that resonates with audiences around the world. With its uplifting message and catchy musical score, Come from Away has become a hit with audiences and critics alike, and is widely regarded as one of the most inspiring and emotionally resonant musicals of recent years.
What are the central themes of Come from Away?
The central themes of Come from Away are hope, resilience, and community. The musical explores the ways in which people come together in times of crisis, and the bonds that form between them. It also celebrates the kindness and generosity of strangers, and the ways in which these qualities can transform lives. Through the stories of the passengers and the townspeople, the musical shows how even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for connection, compassion, and healing. The themes of Come from Away are timeless and universal, and are likely to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The themes of Come from Away are also closely tied to the musical’s setting and characters. The town of Gander, with its strong sense of community and tradition, provides a unique backdrop for the story. The characters, with their diverse backgrounds and experiences, bring their own perspectives and insights to the themes of the musical. Through the character of Nick, for example, the musical explores the theme of identity and belonging, while the character of Diane illustrates the power of kindness and generosity. The result is a rich and nuanced exploration of the human experience, one that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
How does the musical portray the events of 9/11?
The musical Come from Away portrays the events of 9/11 in a sensitive and respectful manner, acknowledging the tragedy and devastation of the attacks while also focusing on the stories of hope and resilience that emerged in their aftermath. The musical does not dwell on the details of the attacks themselves, but rather explores the impact they had on the people of Gander and the passengers who were stranded there. Through the characters and their stories, the musical conveys the shock, fear, and uncertainty of the time, while also celebrating the ways in which people came together to support each other.
The portrayal of 9/11 in Come from Away is also notable for its lack of sensationalism or exploitation. The musical avoids gratuitous or disturbing imagery, instead using suggestion and implication to convey the gravity of the events. The focus is on the human story, rather than the politics or ideology of the attacks. This approach allows the musical to explore the emotional and psychological impact of the events on the characters, and to create a sense of empathy and connection with the audience. The result is a powerful and moving portrayal of one of the most significant events of the 21st century, one that is both respectful and thought-provoking.
What role does music play in Come from Away?
Music plays a central role in Come from Away, with a folk-rock score that incorporates traditional Newfoundland music and modern styles. The musical features a range of songs, from upbeat ensemble numbers to poignant ballads, each of which advances the plot and reveals character. The music is used to convey the emotions and experiences of the characters, and to bring the story to life. The score is catchy and memorable, with songs that are both humorous and heartfelt. The musical’s use of music also helps to create a sense of community and connection between the characters, and between the characters and the audience.
The music in Come from Away is also closely tied to the musical’s themes and setting. The use of traditional Newfoundland music, for example, helps to evoke the sense of place and culture that is so central to the story. The musical’s score is also notable for its use of rhythm and melody to convey the emotional intensity of the characters’ experiences. The song “Screech In,” for example, is a lively and energetic number that celebrates the town’s tradition of welcoming strangers, while the ballad “I Am Here” is a poignant expression of grief and loss. The result is a musical that is both deeply rooted in its setting and universally relatable.
What has been the impact of Come from Away on audiences?
Come from Away has had a profound impact on audiences, with many viewers reporting that the musical has inspired them to be more kind, compassionate, and open-minded. The musical’s themes of hope, resilience, and community have resonated deeply with audiences, who have been moved by the stories of the passengers and the townspeople. The musical has also been praised for its thought-provoking portrayal of the events of 9/11, and for its celebration of the human spirit. Many audience members have reported feeling a sense of connection and empathy with the characters, and have been inspired to make a positive difference in their own communities.
The impact of Come from Away on audiences is also closely tied to the musical’s ability to create a sense of community and connection between the characters and the audience. The musical’s use of music, drama, and comedy helps to break down barriers and create a sense of shared experience, allowing audience members to feel a sense of belonging and connection with the story. The musical’s portrayal of the events of 9/11, and its celebration of the kindness and generosity of strangers, has also helped to create a sense of unity and solidarity among audience members. The result is a musical that is both deeply moving and profoundly uplifting, one that has the power to inspire and transform audiences in lasting ways.
What is the significance of Come from Away in the context of contemporary musical theatre?
Come from Away is significant in the context of contemporary musical theatre because of its unique blend of storytelling, music, and themes. The musical’s use of a true story, and its focus on the human experience, sets it apart from many other musicals that are based on fictional stories or fantasy worlds. The musical’s portrayal of the events of 9/11, and its celebration of the kindness and generosity of strangers, also makes it a significant and timely work. The musical’s success has also helped to pave the way for other musicals that explore similar themes and ideas, and has demonstrated the power of musical theatre to inspire and transform audiences.
The significance of Come from Away in the context of contemporary musical theatre is also closely tied to its innovative storytelling and creative staging. The musical’s use of a non-linear narrative, and its incorporation of multiple storylines and characters, helps to create a sense of complexity and depth. The musical’s staging, which features a minimalist set and a versatile ensemble cast, also helps to create a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The result is a musical that is both deeply engaging and thought-provoking, one that challenges audiences to think critically about the world and their place in it. As a work of contemporary musical theatre, Come from Away is a landmark production that is likely to be studied and emulated for years to come.