Come From Away: A True Story That Changed Canadian Musical Theatre
Santina Francesca
Written by Santina Francesca in Spotlight Performing arts

Come From Away: A True Story That Changed Canadian Musical Theatre

WELCOME TO THE ROCK!

Come From Away is a true testament to the power of real stories, human kindness, and the strength of Canadian storytelling on the global stage.

The musical itself was born out of curiosity and compassion. Writers Irene Sankoff and David Hein were inspired after reading a documentary-style book about the 2001 events in Gander, Newfoundland. On September 11th, when U.S. airspace closed, 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 passengers were diverted to the small town of Gander. Instead of panic, the residents welcomed strangers of all backgrounds with open arms, offering homes, food, and support for days. This story of extraordinary hospitality and human connection became the heart of the musical.

To me, what makes Come From Away truly stand out is its adaptation of real stories. Real people. Real experiences. Real emotions. The show transforms an incredibly traumatic event into a touching piece of theatre, treating these real stories with care, warmth, and respect. It’s a rare example of theatre that is both emotionally gripping and profoundly human.

Unlike many large-scale productions, Come From Away doesn’t rely on elaborate sets or spectacle. There are no flashy effects or over-the-top props. Every detail is purposeful. Instead, the production thrives on character depth, ensemble cohesion, and authentic storytelling. It’s grounded, heartfelt, human-centred, and unapologetically Canadian.

Some of the most memorable moments in the show capture the duality of its energy and emotion. The “Heave Away / Screech In” sequence bursts with joy as the musicians join the performers on stage, blurring the line between the orchestra pit and the action. The celebratory Newfoundland music and ensemble energy pull the audience into a communal, infectious spirit. In contrast, the song “Prayer” slows the pace, offering a deeply moving moment of reflection and unity. Performers sing in multiple languages, representing the diverse passengers and cultures, and it’s a beautiful reminder of shared humanity in a time of crisis. Together, these sequences showcase the breadth of storytelling in Canadian theatre from exuberant celebration to profound emotional resonance.

The performers’ energy, timing, and musicality create fully immersive storytelling. Every song, movement, and interaction is crafted to convey community, resilience, and connection. The narrative flows with clarity, focus, and heart, and the ensemble’s precision ensures that each real-life story resonates deeply with audiences.

Watching Come From Away, you are completely transported. The strong vocals, impactful choreography, and impeccable storytelling from every single performer leave a lasting impression. It’s not just a musical; it’s a living, breathing portrait of humanity at its best.

This show has had, and will continue to have, a lasting influence on Canadian musical theatre. It celebrates humanity, community, and resilience: the very qualities that define Canadian theatre on both a national and international scale. Come From Away proves that Canadian stories, told with care and creativity, can resonate around the world, setting a new benchmark for authenticity, emotional impact, and the power of theatre to unite audiences.

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