At the same time Americans were reeling from the impact of 9/11, a very small town almost an ocean away came together and, through the generosity and ingenuity of its townsfolk, managed to care for thousands of people from around the world who arrived unannounced in their back yard.
Come from Away captures the vibrancy, high spirits and remarkable unity that brought together the travelers that arrived in tiny Gander, Newfoundland, when U.S. airspace was closed following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. An airport that normally served fewer than a half-dozen aircraft a day suddenly was bombarded by 38 aircraft, many carrying Americans. These sad, frightened souls initially had no idea why they were making an emergency landing – some thought there was a malfunction on their aircraft.
The show is almost too perfect to describe. About 18 actors remain onstage for almost the entire performance, transforming themselves from hardy Newfoundlanders to frightened passengers and back again in the wink of an eye. This is an ensemble show at its best.
Occasionally, a few characters come forward, such as Janice (Emily Walton), a youthful Gander TV reporter, and Oz (Harter Clingman), the town’s police officer. The show emphasizes how the passengers eventually let down their guard and accept the immense hospitality of their hosts. During the five days that they spent together, passengers ate at residents’ homes, used their showers, and got drunk on their whiskey. A few even elect to become “honorary Newfoundlanders” by kissing a fresh-caught cod.
The show’s movement never seems to stop. For most of the evening, the setting shifts from schools to community centers to the café where Gander leaders tend to congregate. This non-stop action is helped by a mid-stage revolve, which is put to good use throughout the show. As actors and scenery swirl around the stage, a grove of tall trees in the background give the set a northerly feel. The sturdy trees also hint at the hardy spirits who call Gander home.
Despite its many moments of music and laughter, Come from Away does not forget about the painful realities of the 9/11 horror. Hannah (Danielle K. Thomas) can’t think about anything other than her son, a New York firefighter. A Muslim passenger (Nick Duckart) is forced to endure a humiliating strip search when he gets off the plane.
The stress suffered by the passengers leads to changes in relationships. A gay couple doesn’t make it through the ordeal; while an awkward Englishman and a Texan may be finding late-in-life romance.
The message that Come from Away teaches us is clear. When disaster strikes, it’s possible for people to come together and form a bond that rises to the occasion. Thanks to the scrappy, unrefined but warmhearted Newfoundlanders, we see how such an outcome is surely within our grasp.
