Come From Away – Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

Book, Music and Lyrics: Irene Sankoff and David Hein

Director: Christopher Ashley

Musical theatre is often heartwarming, charming, and touching. There are only so many shows that are all that and more. Come From Away is one of those shows. It is impressively difficult to take one of the most horrific events in history and turn it into an utterly heartrending and moving piece of theatre. This company and this show achieve that.

Come From Away is an upbeat, folksy musical which tells the story of the 38 planes which were forced to land in Gander, Newfoundland in the wake of the events of 9/11. The show is heavily dependent on an ensemble company multi-rolling as a number of characters ranging from the residents of Gander to aeroplane passengers to ever-lovable pets left in the hold of the planes. With a simple design and an onstage eight-piece band, the storytelling is stylised and fast-paced. It’s a uniquely styled musical, drawing from verbatim, physical theatre, and traditional storytelling to create a beautiful show unlike any other show.

Noticeably, the design is pretty bare, so what is there works hard to make the scene and character changes clear. Beowulf Borritt’s scenic design is elegantly rustic, landing us neatly in Newfoundland while Toni-Leslie James’ costume design pairs with this to communicate character changes using only small details and accessories. Of course what brings these elements together are the performers: the company of nine actors each perform at least three different characters each. All these characters are based on real people, so there is a big job to be done to ensure that they are presented onstage fully and with honour. Working in tight-knit collaboration with a finely-tuned band, the company presents these characters, their stories, and a score of emotional songs with grace and ease.

Although this is an ensemble show, it would be remiss not to mention ensemble members who go above and beyond to make this an unforgettable production. Standing in for Oz & others this evening was Alyn Hawke, who brought a joy and liveliness to the stage without standing out. Nicholas Pound finds a juxtaposition of comic lightness as the Mayors of various Newfoundland towns alongside a spiritual gravitas as an older man finally sharing his faith. Daniel Crowder and Kirsty Hoiles surprise with their hidden star power as Nick and Diane. Ultimately, the real power of this show is the strength of a chorus of voices and instruments, brought together as one.

Looking into our world’s future, it is difficult to imagine how there may be a positive way forward. However, Come From Away reminds us of the power of human beings when they come together to care for each other – in the face of tragedy can still be found light and togetherness. Watching this show reminds us how important it is to hold our loved ones close, but it also reminds us that even when the world is falling apart, it will somehow get put back together.

Looking back now, over twenty years since 9/11, “we honour what was lost but we also commemorate what was found.” And if what was found was compassion and a desire to help others, then it seems there is hope. Another hopeful aspect: during this week’s run, Come From Away and the Wolverhampton Grand are partnering to collect warm clothing and monetary donations for Good Shepherd, an organisation working to provide support for people experiencing homelessness.

Pack a new pair of socks and a tube of toothpaste into your carry-on, and be ready for an emotional yet hopeful evening of brilliantly beautiful theatre.

Runs until 9 November 2024 and on tour