The world’s collective memory of Sept. 11 is often dark, of a global horror, of the terrorist attacks in the US—the deadliest in history.
But years later, the world discovered a heartwarming story born out of the terrifying event. Based on true events at Newfoundland, an island on the eastern coast of Canada, the musical “Come From Away” tells of the generosity and hospitality the Newfoundlanders extended to thousands of airplane passengers stranded in the small town of Gander in the aftermath of 9/11.
The unbelievable yet uplifting tale initially struggled to get produced. But it has since become a hit, reaching stages all over North America, Broadway, the West End, Australia, the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, even Korea, Japan, and now, the Philippines—a testament to the universality of its message.
“There is never a bad time to tell a story about human kindness. Especially with the political climate right now, a story about welcoming strangers from other parts of the world and just being good to each other just makes sense.”
This statement, by “Come From Away” co-creator David Hein, as quoted in the Toronto Star in 2016, rings true to this day. Even Manila today, now far detached from the events of 9/11, dealing with its own share of political conflicts, stands to benefit from hearing the inspiring stories from the “islanders” and “plane people.”
Despite being set in a town thousands of miles away from our own islands, “Come From Away” easily resonates with Filipinos, thanks to the community spirit and sense of unity and trust the musical champions. It echoes our own sense of bayanihan and a shared concern for our kapwa. It’s this innate spirit and sensibility that gives more heart to this Manila staging.
Portrayed by a powerful cast of local theater artists, GMG Productions’ “Come From Away” has turned the already inspiring and heartwarming tale of Gander post-9/11 into a compelling tale of hope and a masterclass in ensemble acting.
The musical features over 70 characters, portrayed by a dozen actors. This is the first time GMG Productions is working with a Filipino-led cast, featuring some of the most distinguished names in the theater industry—and it’s proven to be the perfect showcase of each actor’s versatility and generosity on stage. The synergy in the cast was palpable, all united in moving the story.
While many other plays featuring an ensemble of characters and vignettes of different stories often struggle in keeping the plot and flow tight and equally engaging, “Come From Away,” having been refined through its numerous stagings over the years, has successfully woven together the dozens of characters without it becoming convoluted.
Behind the accomplished cast is an equally formidable creative team, whose care for the material shows through how “Come From Away” unfolded on stage. The unfortunate disruptor of what would’ve otherwise been great synergy in this musical was some tech problems, with unbalanced mixing resulting in some voices coming off louder or softer than others.
Nevertheless, “Come From Away” succeeds in touching the heart (especially if, like me, you’re drifting through the day-to-day with a slightly tired outlook). It’s not a “triumph” over tragedy in the traditional way—instead, it’s a collection of seemingly unimaginable kindnesses, the type that challenges the norms we’re used to. It succeeds in reigniting that hope that makes us believe there’s still good in the world—and that normal people like us can make an impact, too.
“Come From Away” runs until June 29 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater. Starring Cathy Azanza-Dy, Caisa Borromeo, Garrett Bolden, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Becca Coates, Steven Cadd, Mayen Cadd, Rycharde Everley, Topper Fabregas, Sheila Francisco, Carla Guevara Laforteza, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Gian Magdangal, George Schulze, and Chino Veguillas.
Directed by Michael Williams, with musical direction by Rony Fortich, choreography by Delphine Buencamino, lighting design by Harry Tabner, sound design by Luke Swaffield, production design by Kayla Teodoro, hair and makeup design by Myrene Santos, costume design by Hershee Tantiado, and dialect coaching by Joel Goldes.
