Come From Away At New Wimbledon Theatre
Come From Away has been on my to-see list for far too long. The arrival of it back in London as part of a UK and Ireland tour was news gratefully received. Many friends had recommended it over the years, and I knew a little of what it was about, but nothing could have prepared me for the emotive spectacle I was sat waiting to review.
Come From Away chronicles the real-life experiences of the people of Gander, Newfoundland in Canada in the wake of 9/11. The devastating events of that day forced airspace to close and almost 7000 airline passengers were diverted and forced to land. It is a heartwarming and honest musical about humanity, the power of community and kindness.
Reading the backstory before the performance started, I was struck by how many of the ‘characters’ are based on real people. Beverly Bass, the first female captain for American Airlines, Claude Elliott, the mayor at the time of the plane’s arrival, Bonnie Harris who ran the Gander animal shelter as well as Diane and Nick, a couple who fell in love during this five-day unplanned stay in Gander.
The airline passengers land and have no idea why or how long they will be expected to stay. They are all desperate to get in touch with relatives and restart their journey. Hours in Gander, turn into days and we follow the residents of as they do their best to accommodate the arrival of 7000 people. The real issues of language and religion tackled sensitively and respectfully whilst highlighting the challenges regarding religious diets and prayer times. One thing is clear, kindness and community need no translation, and the feelings of gratitude are universal.
Gander really did go above and beyond to ensure that the arrivals feel clean, fed and cared for but their generosity goes way deeper than these material things. Inviting people into their homes and lives means that guards are dropped and through the show we are able to witness humanity at it’s finest.
The music is an integral part of the show blending Celtic, folk and rock influences to reflect the culture of Newfoundland. A particular musical highlight was “Screech in” which invited the on-stage band to take centre stage with their fiddle, accordion and bodhran for a lively number set in the bar. The show has the perfect balance of fast-paced and joyful tunes, blended with emotional, powerful balance which create the most amazing connection with the audience. The choreography is simple yet so very effective.
Usually, I would shout out to certain members of the cast who I felt deserved a special mention but there is no way I could not acknowledge the entire cast. The cast of just twelve people are phenomenal. They seamlessly play multiple roles with the simple change of accent or addition/removal of a hat or a jacket.
There are no fancy costumes, scenery changes nor show-stopping dance routines, they are not needed. There is so much heart, emotion and power in the way that this story has been told. I guarantee that it will leave you feeling moved way after the final note.
It is inspiring, funny, heartwarming, clever and incredibly moving piece of theatre. Everyone should see it!
Review by Nicci Garlick
This touring show is at it’s 20th stop, Wimbledon Theatre, until Saturday 12th October. It can then be seen in Norwich, Wolverhampton, Canterbury, Chichester, Milton Keynes and the tour finishes in Salford in January 2025. You can buy tickets here.
If you liked this review you might also like my review of Mean Girls, Operation Mincemeat and Brunch At The Musicals.