Come From Away

Stories of Kindness

A Broadway Musical Based on Kindness

A friend had recommended I see the Broadway Musical “Come From Away” based on the story. Other than that, I knew very little about the play. I knew it had a name that I couldn’t quite remember and that it had something to do with events that had occurred on September 11, 2001.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with the play, here’s a little recap.

Gander, Newfoundland, population 10,000. Suddenly, they find themselves with over 7,000 “plane people” descending on their city. This was at a time when the planes were no longer able to land at their destination following the events of 9/11 being close to American Air space. That’s all you really need to know.

From Chaos to Kindness

The play details what happened in that town with terrific lyrics and a dynamic cast made up of composites of the real people of Gander. They opened their hearts, homes, and lives to help thousands of strangers. It’s incredibly moving! The stories of the kindnesses that occurred and the magnitude of creative ways locals helped tend to the displaced strangers were powerful.

I don’t want to spoil anything, but the recipients were equally as generous and grateful for all the kindness they received. Over the years, they have given “a little something” back to their kind and gracious community hosts.

A Touching Tale

I was moved to tears (happy ones) several times throughout the performance. Just envisioning the true selflessness that these Canadians showed. It was powerful stuff.

Honestly, I am shocked that I really didn’t know much about this story sooner. So much kindness. Kindness that engaged a city, that touched thousands of people’s lives!

The acts of kindness were celebrated at a reunion on the 10th anniversary in September 2011. Many of the “plane people” returned to Gander with spouses and family members. I haven’t been able to think of one other Broadway musical that was inspired to tell the story of so much kindness.

A Must See

It was uplifting, heartwarming, and honestly, a breath of fresh air. If you get the chance definitely go see Come From Away! I think this story will stay with me forever. As I think of the songs and the people that through their simple and generous acts of kindness made that difficult time so much better for those folks who found themselves on that rock.