Book, Music, and Lyrics: Irene Sankoff and David Hein
Director: Christopher Ashley
The extraordinary one-act musical Come From Away lands at The Lowry in Salford this Christmas, delivering an unforgettable evening of humanity, heart, and harmony. Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, this 2019 Olivier Award-winning production tells the remarkable true story of the 7,000 passengers diverted to the small but increasingly famous town of Gander, Newfoundland, on 9/11, and the locals who open their hearts and homes to them.
The ensemble cast of 12 work in perfect harmony, offering a seamless and heartfelt performance that feels closer to straight acting than traditional musical theatre. Daniel Crowder stands out with a sensitive and realistic portrayal of Nick, Doug, and others, while Amanda Henderson brings warmth and humour as Beulah and several other roles, including a feisty, karaoke-loving Liverpudlian who has the audience laughing and nodding in recognition. Nicholas Pound as Mayor Claude Elliott and Dale Mathurin as Bob also deliver standout performances, exuding a relaxed and natural ease onstage.
Musically, the production shines under the expert baton/accordion of Andrew Corcoran. The Celtic-inspired score, performed by a tireless onstage band, electrifies the audience, propelling the story forward with memorable and emotionally charged numbers like “Welcome to the Rock” and “I Am Here.” Kelly Devine’s musical staging adds a lot of depth and dynamism, executed with precision by the cast, and occasionally the band!
Christopher Ashley’s direction keeps the action fluid and intimate. Beowulf Boritt’s minimalist set design, a few chairs and tables, ingeniously transforms into planes, buses, and town halls, reflecting the central theme that simple gestures can have profound effects. The stationary staging allowing the fast-paced transitions to shine without distraction.
The relentless pace, while exhilarating, leaves little room for the audience to catch their breath—or their applause. However, this whirlwind mirrors the chaos and kindness at the heart of the story, making the experience all the more immersive. There should be more one-act plays if they deliver this level of entertainment within a shorter time frame!
On press night, the evening ends on an incredible surprise high. After the standing ovation for the cast and understudies subsides, the original Newfoundlanders take to the stage in a sea of colour and smiles, with a speech from Gander’s Mayor, Claude Elliott. His heartfelt words drive home the show’s powerful themes of love, compassion, and kindness, creating a triumphant moment that earns all involved a well-deserved standing ovation.
Come From Away is more than a musical, it is a celebration of human triumph and community. This story belongs on every school curriculum, offering a vital lesson in empathy and unity that resonates deeply in today’s often fractured world. A must-see production that lingers long after the final call home.
Runs until 5 Jan 2025
