At its core, Come From Away is a musical that celebrates the resilience, kindness, and compassion of humanity. Set in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, it tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 air passengers who were unexpectedly grounded in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, and the locals who opened their homes and hearts to them. Through its heartfelt performances, soaring music, and innovative staging, Come From Away emerges as a deeply moving and uplifting production that easily resonates with its audience.
The show’s success lies in its ability to weave together a multitude of perspectives into a cohesive, emotionally charged narrative. Irene Sankoff and David Hein’s book, music, and lyrics are both poignant and spirited, expertly capturing the essence of these real-life events with a unique blend of razor-sharp wit and heart-wrenching depth. The themes of hope, unity, and shared humanity pulse through every note and line, making this production not just a story about a community in crisis, but a larger reflection on how kindness and solidarity can flourish even in the darkest of times.
The pacing of the show is flawless, maintaining a breathless yet controlled energy that sweeps the audience along without ever feeling rushed. In its 100-minute, one-act format, the show never loses momentum, flowing seamlessly from one scene to the next. The narrative is expertly structured, with each moment building on the last to create an experience that is both emotionally powerful and incredibly well-crafted. The musical’s solid sense of identity shines through, offering a unique perspective that immediately immerses the audience in the uniquely loveable world of Gander.
Central to this success is the remarkable ensemble cast, who breathe life into dozens of characters with remarkable fluidity and precision. Through masterful multi-role performances, the twelve actors seamlessly transition between personas, creating a dynamic and fluid storytelling experience. It’s a testament to both the actors and Christopher Ashley’s direction that despite the large number of characters, each one is fully realised, allowing the audience to deeply connect with their individual stories. In just over an hour and a half, Come From Away manages to develop these characters with a depth and richness that many musicals struggle to achieve with only two leads.
Sara Poyzer’s performance is nothing short of miraculous, particularly in her portrayal of both Beverly, the commanding and strong-willed airline pilot, and Annette, a hilarious and endearing local. Her ability to switch between such contrasting characters is a joy to watch, with her comedic timing as Annette providing much-needed levity amidst the emotional weight of the story. Equally captivating is Jamal Zulfiqar, whose portrayal of Kevin J. is deeply moving. Zulfiqar brings remarkable sensitivity and nuance to the role, conveying Kevin J.’s emotional journey with authenticity and grace. His performance leaves a lasting impression, standing out as one of the most compelling in the show. The love story between Nick and Diane, played by Daniel Crowder and Kirsty Hoiles, provides an additional layer of warmth and charm. Both actors expertly capture the awkward, dorky sweetness of their budding romance, making it impossible not to root for them as their relationship blossoms amidst the chaos.
Beyond the performances, the design elements of Come From Away undoubtedly deserve special mention. Howell Binkley’s lighting design is nothing short of extraordinary, enhancing Beowulf Boritt’s minimalist yet effective scenic design. The set, composed mostly of simple tables and chairs, transforms effortlessly from one scene to the next, transporting the audience from the interior of a plane to a local bar with remarkable ease. The lighting transitions are equally impressive, shifting subtly to reflect the changing moods of the show—from the warm, inviting glow of the town’s hospitality to the stark, tense moments of uncertainty. This union of lighting and set design creates an immersive atmosphere that draws the audience deeper into the story.
The score, with its folk music-inspired rhythms and melodies, plays an integral role in creating the musical’s unique soundscape. It beautifully captures the spirit of the Gander community, evoking a sense of place and time that is both specific and universal. Songs like “Welcome to the Rock” and “Me and the Sky” soar, not only because of their catchy melodies but also due to their deep emotional resonance, something that beautifully underscores both “Prayer” and “Stop the World”. Kelly Devine’s musical staging and August Eriksmoen’s orchestrations add a powerful layer to the storytelling, ensuring that the musical numbers blend seamlessly with the narrative.
In the hands of director Christopher Ashley, the cast navigates the complex interplay of multiple characters and storylines with seeming ease. Ashley’s direction is a masterclass in clarity and purpose, ensuring that every scene is filled with intention and meaning. The pacing never dips, and the energy never falters, making the show’s transformation from scene to scene transfixing and engaging.
Come From Away at Nottingham Theatre Royal is an exceptional production that highlights the very best of what theatre can achieve. It’s a powerful, heartwarming celebration of humanity that reminds us of the enduring strength of community and compassion. With its outstanding performances, stunning design, and deeply resonant narrative, this is a show that will leave audiences inspired, uplifted, and profoundly moved.
Come from Away plays at the Nottingham Theatre Royal until Saturday 5th October 2024 before continuing its UK tour.
Photography throughout from .
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