Therry Theatre is the first non-professional South Australian company to premiere the Broadway hit musical, Come From Away. Based on the true events surrounding stranded airline passengers in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, this beloved show remains a profoundly moving piece of theatre. Therry brings this remarkable story to life to a professional standard, with an impressive showcase of local talent.
Canadian writing team Irene Sankoff and David Hein are behind the original book, music and lyrics for the show. Come From Away soared to international recognition when it was nominated for a Tony Award and a Grammy Award, winning an Olivier Award in 2019. It is a story that has moved audiences worldwide, largely because people have never forgotten that day on 11 September 2001.
Come From Away is based on the real events that unfolded on the day the world stood still and the uncertain days that followed. When the United States Federal Aviation Administration shut down its airspace following the attack, 38 planes were diverted to the nearest airport, landing unexpectedly in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland.
Suddenly, this quiet city was hosting nearly 7,000 stranded passengers and crew. Amid fear and confusion, the people of Gander welcomed the ‘come from aways’ with open arms, offering shelter, food, and comfort. In these unlikely circumstances, humanity shone through in acts of kindness, hospitality, and the unexpected bonds formed in the face of adversity.
At its core, Come From Away honours the real people of Gander, whose kindness and generosity became an unforgettable part of history.
The production is directed by David Sinclair alongside musical director Peter Johns and choreographer Linda Williams. The trio clearly have a cohesive vision, and every element works together seamlessly to deliver an all-round highly professional production.
The show opens with Welcome to the Rock, and the cast pulls us straight into the heart of Gander. This high-energy number establishes the show’s momentum, and the audience is immediately strapped in.
True to the show’s themes, Come From Away is an ensemble piece. The cast expertly play multiple roles across different settings, intertwining their stories with clarity throughout. The individual stories of each character evoke a sense of empathy and relatability thanks to their touching portrayals.
Key plot lines follow Janice, the recently appointed news reporter, played by Eloise Quinn-Valentine. She acts as the narrator, powerfully giving context to certain events, whilst also carrying her storyline from nervous newcomer to composed professional.
Offering stability amid the chaos is pilot Beverly, performed by Dee Farnell. She perfectly encapsulates Beverly’s grounded presence for those who were spiralling, while revealing her inner anxieties to the audience. Towards the end of the show, Farnell hits us with her performance of Me and the Sky. Also featuring the female company, this number truly soars!
The literal ‘rock’ of the whole town is Mayor Claude, performed by David Gauci. He expertly captures Claude’s deep care for his community and his calm decisiveness amid uncertainty. When Gauci finally sheds tears as the passengers depart, the audience can’t help but feel deeply moved alongside him.
As Beulah, Kate Anolak shares a heart-wrenching plotline with Lisa Simonetti playing Hannah, a mother anxiously waiting for news of her firefighter son. Together, they master some of the show’s most tender moments, portraying the transformative bond between two women brought together by tragedy. Their performances are sincere and deeply compassionate, allowing the quiet strength of female friendship to take centre stage.
Linda Williams’ movement and blocking allow for clever and purposeful focus on key character moments. Working with a largely static set and a few chairs, Williams keeps the ensemble in near-constant motion. She uses shifting formations and fluid transitions to maintain pace and visual interest. Mark Oakley’s lighting design enhances these shapes, guiding the audience’s focus as well as the character’s emotions.
The score is a vibrant blend of folk, Celtic, and contemporary musical styles that perfectly captures the spirit of Newfoundland. The majority of the live band is visible onstage, and at times, they join the cast centre-stage in beautiful moments of unity. With little dialogue, the music drives this story, and the band are most certainly a highlight!
Come From Away is a powerful reminder of humanity’s capacity for compassion in the face of crisis. Therry Theatre’s production is a shining example of community theatre at its best. It delivers a heartfelt, immersive experience that brings raw, human stories to life and leaves audiences with a lasting sense of unity and hope. Don’t miss it.
Come From Away runs to 23 August at the Arts Theatre, 53 Angas Street Adelaide SA 5000.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1351994
Website: https://therry.org.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/therrytheatre/
Photo credits: Andrew Trimmings
