If you see only one musical in your lifetime, it should be Come From Away. Currently playing at Wimbledon Theatre, this production brings the extraordinary true story of the small town of Gander and the surrounding Newfoundland area to life. Under the skilled direction of Christopher Ashley, it captures deeply emotional and inspiring moments, offering a beautiful mix of laughter, humanity, and hope.
The musical tells the tale of thirty-eight planes grounded at Gander Airport when US airspace was closed during 9/11. Gander Airport had once been a fuel stop before jet planes could make it across the ocean in one go. Fortunately, it was sizable enough to accommodate this many planes. Seven thousand people were stranded, doubling the population of the surrounding area. The community bands together, and we meet a variety of characters, both Newfoundlanders and ‘plane people’, as they navigate the far-reaching effects of the tragedy.
Without delving into the tragedy itself, Come From Away highlights human connection and kindness in the face of crisis. It balances the emotional weight of the event with moments of lightness and joy, drawing the audience into this world of compassion and resilience without ever feeling heavy-handed. The story moves seamlessly between various characters’ experiences, showing the transformation of both locals and passengers over those fateful days.
With each actor taking on several different roles, it is hard to single out any one person, as they were all amazing. However, judging by the audience’s appreciation, Jamal Zulfiqar was a bit of a show-stealer, particularly in his role as Kevin. Meanwhile, Bree Smith and Sara Poyzer wowed us with their vocal prowess. One quibble would be that sometimes the American and Newfoundland accents slipped, but it was a minor issue and did not take away from the enjoyment of the show.
The staging is simple but effective. With minimal set pieces and props, the focus remains on the actors and their stories. Chairs are moved and rearranged to create everything from airplanes to buses, and the transitions are fluid and purposeful, never distracting from the narrative. The choreography by Kelly Devine is dynamic, full of energy and movement, yet always feels organic to the story rather than a traditional musical number.
Come From Away is a powerful, moving, and uplifting production that celebrates the very best of humanity in the face of unimaginable tragedy. With its remarkable ensemble cast, innovative staging, and heartfelt storytelling, this musical leaves audiences with a renewed sense of hope and connection. Wimbledon Theatre provides an intimate setting for this production, allowing the emotional resonance of the story to fully immerse the audience. Whether you’re familiar with the tale or coming to it fresh, Come From Away is a must-see that will linger long after the final bow.
