Review By Ashlei Havili Thomas, Front Row Reviewers
Most Americans probably couldn’t point to Newfoundland on a map of North America, nor could they point to Gander on a map of Newfoundland. But out of the tragedy of 9/11, Come From Away, a musical touring with Broadway Across America, at the Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City, Utah brings hope and love and healing. Avid theatregoers will gush about this remarkable true story that will steal your heart detailing with the events of 9/11 when United States airspace was suddenly closed and hundreds of planes are abruptly redirected to the nearest accommodating airport. This ensemble-driven folk musical will have you tapping your toes, laughing, and crying along with the heartwarming stories of people from across the globe coming together during an unthinkable crisis.
If you ask someone where they were when the World Trade Center fell in New York City, they could probably tell you every moment of that day. Come From Away documents the stories of several of those passengers unaware of why they are stuck in their planes for over 24 hours in Gander, Newfoundland of all places, and what they experience as they disembark those planes. Thousands of people from all walks of life emerge to find themselves in a town that is about the size of Ephraim, Utah. Overnight, their population was doubled, with around 7,000 people from around the world forced to land and stay for the better part of a week. With characters based on actual Gander residents and passengers from the 39 planes that were grounded, Come From Away is a reminder of—even when everything seems bleak—the amazing capacity humanity has to show simple kindness, providing a light of hope to an ever-darkening world.
Trey DeLuna (Kevin J. and Ali) is both distinct and a driving force, often becoming a catalyst for other cast members. Shawn W. Smith as Kevin T. and Garth creates hilariously witty moments for the audience with his expert timing while also giving a poignant performance in “Prayer” that connects audience members with the faiths shared by others. Addison Garner (Beverly and Annette) inspires a new generation of female pilots with her dazzling performance of “Me and the Sky” and with Beverly’s various moments throughout the musical. Andrew Hendrick as Claude is part narrator, part lodestone; Hendrick’s performance brings everyone else into sharper focus, allowing other cast members to shine while orchestrating “behind the scenes.” Come From Away is a true ensemble show, with all members of the cast playing multiple roles within the story. While ensemble shows are common, Come From Away‘ players bring a singular cohesion and energy to their performance. As these people’s stories unfold, beginning with why they are landed in the first place, we feel the deep dread and despair all those in Gander, citizens and passengers alike, that have to internalize. It sets the tone for the show and makes the narrative serve as a reminder to them, and to us. The knot in our hearts begins to unravel as we not only see Gander folk extend amazing kindness and acceptance and compassion, but the trust, hope, and felt acceptance from the strangers. I distinctly remember the man who wanted to lock up his wallet and found, to his amazement, he didn’t have to. The mother who tries to contact her son who was onsite during the tragedy. The racism that too often can come from a large group of people trapped together is addressed. The Gander population’s welcome lasted all through the show, and all those participating in their various roles are encouraged and supported through this unimaginable calamity.
Come From Away runs without intermission, yet no moment of the show is dull or lacking energy. The electric musical number after musical number builds to a seemingly unbeatable high, until the next is performed; nothing seems to be left in reserve at the end of show, leaving the audience to listen to their favorite songs on repeat as they travel home. We feel the distress that morphs into joy–yes joy, the Gander neighbors provide to these horrified passengers.
Beowulf Boritt’s ingenious set design is both simple and effective. Boritt creates a barebones set; nothing is extraneous, and everything serves double or quadruple purpose. Even then, Boritt’s design allows the cast to create distinct locations based on the arrangement of those tables and chairs. Even the back wall of the stage serves as an entrance to the airplane hangar and to a church at various points. Boritt’s set design works in perfect step with the lighting design by Howell Binkley to bring a seamless visual playground for the cast members. Binkley creates instinctual asides and atmospheric spaces with nothing more than spotlights and color; the design’s effortless communication to the audience is the work of a master. Similar to the efficacy seen in Boritt’s design, Toni-Leslie James is masterful at creating distinct looks for each character with nothing but a jacket and an accessory. With cast members rarely leaving the stage, James does the most with the least, creating memorable designs for the entire cast out of less articles of clothes than exist in most women’s closets. All these elements would seem lackluster without the amazing live band, performing under the direction of Sarah Pool Wilhelm and Bronwen Chan. Their live accompaniment provides extra magic to the production, giving life to the music and lyrics of Irene Sankoff and David Hein and creating a lasting memory for everyone who sees this amazing show. Interesting fact: there is a reunion in Gander where many the original passengers to share their particular stories about this tragic event and the unexpected healing that Gander folks provided. Come From Away: The True Story
Come From Away received many Tony Award nominations and it’s clear why. Running for only a weekend, Come From Away is performing at the Eccles Theater in and any avid theatre fans must purchase tickets for this brilliant production quickly. Due to language and subject matter, Come From Away is not recommended for young audiences, but this truly extraordinary show will steal your heart and maybe (just maybe) renew your faith in humanity. Run to get your tickets to Come From Away, part of Broadway Across America’s tour, here for this last weekend of April in Salt Lake City, Utah.
NETworks Presentations and Broadway at the Eccles presents Come From Away, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein.
The George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater, 131 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
April 26-27 8:00 PM, April 27 2:00 PM, April 28 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM
Tickets: $69-159
Ticket website
Broadway at the Eccles
Come From Away official website
Come From Away Facebook page
Broadway at the Eccles Facebook page
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