The massively popular musical, 'Come From Away', has returned to the Melbourne stage and it's once again a surefire way to spend a raucous night at the theatre.
Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, this production was directed by Christopher Ashley, bringing this fast-paced piece to the Comedy Theatre with a dynamic and solid cast of performers and musicians.
Set 20 years ago, Come From Away follows the well-known events of 9/11 from a little-known perspective. The Newfoundland town of Gander is the site of the action, where 38 planes carrying 7000 passengers are diverted to clear American airspace. Unaware of what is happening, the passengers soon find themselves trapped in this nowhere Canadian town. Much to their luck, it just happens to be filled with some of kindest and most laid-back people in the world. Friendships are made, new love is kindled and this town, which doubles in population with the arrival of these temporary come from awayers, is forever changed.
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The musical chronicles these true-to-life events at break-neck speed. Dancing between the perspectives of the passengers and the perspectives of the townsfolk, the story weaves in every emotion under the sun: one minute you’ll be cheering for joy and laughing like mad the next. The gravity of the subject is ever-present, but Come From Away is whole-heartedly optimistic for a show that tackles 9/11 at its core. Bring tissues with you, because I guarantee your eyes will be filled with tears.
The definition of an ensemble piece, Come From Away gives every member of its stellar cast the time to shine, with little recurring jokes, characters and storylines expertly intertwined across the show. There is never a dull moment to be found across its 100-minute runtime, with not a single number dragging the lightning pace. Despite its rollicking velocity, the moments which give the audience pause to reflect always come at just the right time.
This story of deep compassion and humanity in the face of unspeakable tragedy is the jewel that shines brightest, but the songs themselves are another beast. Mid-tune cheers abound, with so many songs calling for the stamping of feet or a fist into the air. Uplifting, despite the ever-presence of human suffering, is the way to describe the feeling that pervades the theatre at the close of this awe-inspiring show. Never before has a standing ovation come to its feet so quickly.
If you haven’t experienced it for yourself already, do yourself a favour and spend the night at Comedy Theatre to witness Come From Away, a show which is infectious in its display of the sense of community that lies within us all.
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