When the newest Broadway Across Canada run was announced to include Come From Away and Novembers Book of Mormon I was admittedly surprised. Come From Away debuted in Calgary in March of 2019 with a sold out run and returned just 2 years ago. However, a packed house on September 17^thshowed that despite it’s third visit in 5 years, the shows popularity continues.

A uniquely Canadian story that has found success on Broadway and The West End and throughout the world, Come From Away is based on the true story of Gander Newfoundland, which became a stopping point for 7000 stranded passengers on and after September 11^th, 2001.

I feel that part of what has made the show so popular is the story of hope and kindness towards our fellow humans. The residents of Gander and nearby towns opened their homes and hearts to strangers during a time of chaos in the world. In my 2019 review I wrote Our current climate of anger and racism, and every other dark aspect of 2019 makes it easy to forget that there are good people. Those who are quick to offer their hands, homes and hearts to those stranded, and those trying to make the best of a difficult situation. While it is sad that 5 years later things haven’t changed much, Come From Away is a reminder that away from social media and news stories people are inherently good.

The cast is once again stellar. It’s incredible to watch these talented actors switch characters with just a change of a jacket and switch of an accent. The characters become fleshed out and we root for gay couple Kevin and Kevin to work out their relationship, for Nick and Diane, who meet during the stay in Gander, to connect and for Hannah to get word on her Firefighter son in New York.

An emotional, uplifting 100 minute journey, Come From Away proves to be a show that is wonderful to experience whether it’s your first time, third, or 10^th. The show is on an Extensive Canadian tour with stops in Penticton, Edmonton, Prince George, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Thunder Bay & Regina.

Related Articles

Contributor Jason Clevett |

Locale Calgary |

Topic Theatre |