North Shore Music Theatre's "Come From Away": A Heartfelt Experience

We come from everywhere; we all come from away.

North Shore Music Theatre presents “Come From Away.” The story is based on real-life events when planes were rerouted to Gander, Newfoundland, after the September 11 attacks. As 7,000 strangers are stranded, they come together in this time of uncertainty. 

This was my first time seeing “Come From Away,” and North Shore Music Theatre’s production is an amazing, heartfelt, and uplifting experience. Nobody was ever alone during this time of dread, even 25 years later, as we continue to remember the tragedy.

A cast of 12 actors plays an assortment of characters. The play revolves around a series of stories as passengers wait for endless periods; the people make conversation, merriment, and pray for the unknown. The relationships are a vital part of the story. 

Each character offers a different perspective on the events. Danny Burgos and Nick Lehan play boyfriends Kevin J. and Kevin T., a couple whose relationship is tested by the events. Some of the strangers' stories brought new romance, like Nick and Diane (Matthew Bryan Feld and Susan Oliveras). 

Hannah (Carla Woods) fights endlessly to reach her son. Bob (Brandon Alvion) navigates unfamiliar surroundings, while Oz (Kyle Michael Anderson) illustrates how the people of Gander responded to the unexpected arrival.

There were several superheroes during 9/11. Mary Callahan plays Beulah, a kind and compassionate resident who helps the stranded passengers. Claude (David Benoit), the town’s mayor, works endlessly to get everyone accommodated. 

I adored Bonnie’s (Victoria Huston) compassion for the animals she took care of. Laurel Harris is wonderful as Beverley, a pilot. Her song “Me and the Sky” is riveting. I also like Janice’s (Alaina Mills) story. As a reporter myself, you never know what stories you’ll cover. 

The staging makes an enormous impact through its simplicity. Several set pieces became unexpected characters: chairs. Chairs are the primary set pieces throughout the show. They’re used as tables, to reflect a plane, and a canyon edge. 

You never realize how one single prop can make an enormous impact. These ordinary objects become essential storytelling tools, allowing audiences to imagine different locations without elaborate scenery. That is the magic of theater. 

The music is one of the most memorable elements of “Come From Away.” Conducted by Dr. Michael McBride and a live orchestra, the music gives the production an energetic spirit. Songs include “Welcome to the Rock,” “On the Edge,” and “Lead Us Out From the Darkness.”

One of my favorite musical numbers is “Screech In.” It’s a rousing and lively number with everyone dancing around in the Gander Bread Box & Cafe. With all the darkness happening, the characters find a happy moment.

Under Kevin P. Hill’s direction, the production moves between moments of tension, humor, and tenderness. He brings together a story of kindness and unexpected friendships, reminding audiences that even during the scariest times, we will find a light.

We all have a story from this day. I was only six years old when terror struck the world. I was too young to understand why people were running on the TV. The only memory I have from that day is coming home on the bus, where my parents were waiting for me in the driveway. 

It’s a difficult topic to discuss, but we can’t forget. That’s why shows like “Come From Away” are important. When the show finished, conversations sparked among audience members about where they were on that day. This show brings people together. 

“Come From Away” is a remarkable show. Get tickets and see it at North Shore Music Theatre, playing until Sunday, Sept. 27. There is no intermission.