Drama Desk Award Winner For best Musical
Come From Away is an uplifting musical that celebrates human compassion in the face of terrible circumstances. Penned by Canadian husband and wife team Irene Snakoff and David Hein, Come From Away is set in the remote town of Gander in Newfoundland, which found itself playing host to the passengers of 38 planes that were forced to land on 9/11. Thoroughly researched and based on interviews with residents and passengers, the show explores how this tiny community opened its hearts and homes to their unexpected guests.
Come From Away debuted at San Diego's La Jolla Playhouse in 2015, before moving onto Seattle's Rep Theatre, where it broke box office records and was extended due to popular demand. This Broadway production was nominated for seven Tony Awards, winning one for Best Direction, and also garnered three Drama Desk Awards, including Best Musical.
What is Come From Away About?
On September 11th 2001, as the full horror of the terror attacks became apparent, the US closed its airspace, grounding thousands of passenger jets. 38 of them were forced to land in Gander, a remote Newfoundland town with a population of just 9000 people.
Come From Away focuses on a set of passengers from one plane and the Gander residents who welcomed them into their homes. Amongst this diverse set of characters is American Airlines' first female pilot, a gay couple both called Kevin, and an Egyptian chef, whose initial apprehensions about the reception he will receive proves unfounded. Weaving together all of their storylines, the show creates an affirming portrait of human connection in the most trying of circumstances.
Did You Know?
The musical gets its title from Newfoundland slang. The people of Gander refer to the passengers as "come from aways".
