Review: COME FROM AWAY Enthralls Edmonton

On the northeast tip of North America, on an island called Newfoundland, there's a small town called Gander. On September 11, 2001, approximately 7,000 aircraft passengers were stranded there after the horrific attacks on New York City's World Trade Center. Come From Away tells the true stories of diverted passengers and Gander residents, resulting in a moving musical testament. Since its 2013 development at the Canadian Music Theatre Project, Come From Away soared to international acclaim, receiving multiple Olivier Awards and the 2017 Tony Award for Best Director of a Musical (awarded to Christopher Ashley). For the second time since 2019, the production's North American tour touches down at Edmonton's Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

For many Gander residents, September 11, 2001, begins with a dutiful pre-work pit stop at Tim Hortons. However, it's only a matter of time before shock and fear extinguish the cheerful atmosphere. Everyone from the mayor to school bus drivers to the town SPCA's director scrambles to arrange temporary shelter for the thousands of incoming passengers while grappling with their own fear and disbelief. Before the residents know it, their sleepy town floods with frightened passengers hailing everywhere from Texas to England to Egypt. Among the newcomers are American divorcee, Diane (Christine Toy Johnson), British businessman, Nick (Chamblee Ferguson), and couple Kevin J. (Nick Duckart) and Kevin T. (played on opening night by standby Brandon Springman).

Despite the shocking tragedy, the citizens of Gander are determined to provide their nearly 7,000 guests with top-notch Maritime hospitality. Highlights include a particularly lively pub night (folksy toe-tapper Screech In) in which the bravest visitors don jaunty yellow rain hats, each take a swig of screech, and kiss a codfish to become honourary Newfoundlanders. Other noteworthy numbers include electrifying opening number Welcome to the Rock and dryly comedic ensemble number 38 Planes. As American Airlines captain Beverley Bass, Marika Aubrey delivers a powerful rendition of showstopper Me and the Sky.

An outstanding and distinctly Canadian production, Come From Away is a testament to the power of community and resilience of the human spirit.

Come From Away plays Edmonton's Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium until September 4.

Photo by Matthew Murphy