Come From Away highlights Newfoundland’s generous spirit, May 28 to July 26
The Arts Club teams up with Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre for new local production of the international smash-hit musical
(Left to right) Come From Away music director Ken Cormier and director Ashlie Corcoran
The Arts Club and Citadel present Come From Away at the Stanley BFL Canada Stage from May 28 to July 26
IN THE VERNACULAR of Newfoundland English, the phrase “come from away” denotes anyone who was not born either on the Rock itself or in Labrador. While that might strike some as a framing that excludes outsiders, anyone “from away” who has visited the province will tell you that Newfoundlanders are quite likely the most hospitable and welcoming people in Canada.
A group of nearly 6,600 international airline passengers and crew members found out how true that was on September 11, 2001. With United States airspace closed to all traffic in the wake of that day’s terror attacks, 38 flights were diverted to Gander International Airport. Passengers and crew were grounded for five days, temporarily expanding the city of Gander’s population of 10,000 by more than 60 percent.
The outpouring of generosity from local residents and the lasting impression it made on these stranded travellers from all over the world inspired the Tony Award–winning musical Come From Away, by Canadian writers Irene Sankoff and David Hein.
The show was a runaway—or should we say runway?—success, with productions on Broadway and in the West End, as well as various internationally touring adaptations.
In a new production co-presented with Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre, the Arts Club Theatre Company’s artistic director Ashlie Corcoran helms an ensemble cast that features Andrew Wheeler, Caitriona Murphy, Charlie Gallant, and Stephanie Wolfe, all of whom play multiple roles.
To bring life to the songs, which blend folk, Celtic music, and contemporary sounds, keyboardist and musical director Ken Cormier leads a band that includes drummer Martin Fisk, guitarist Jay Leonard Juatco, Celtic whistle and flute player Dakota Martin, bassist Monica Sumulong Dumas, fiddler Cam Wilson, and percussionist Robin Reid, who plays the bodhrán (a traditional Irish frame drum).
“Come From Away is an infectious show with a score that creates an emotionally powerful experience and showcases what happens when we choose kindness in the face of fear,” Corcoran said of the musical in an Arts Club press release. “This show is a celebration of the human spirit with its message of hope and compassion. With an exciting and fresh new approach, this production is about honouring human connection and the resilience of community—something that feels deeply important right now.” 
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