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Photo Credit @Craig Sugden

Review: Come From Away, New Wimbledon Theatre

The first time I saw Come From Away was on a school trip with my GCSE and A-level classes. As we left the theatre there was much discussion about the horrors of 9/11 and where we had been at the time. My manager recalled watching on television as the second plane hit the south tower. I shared how I was in primary school and remembered the adults being quite emotional that day. The eldest student on the trip, who had just turned eighteen, mentioned that he had no memory of the event, as it had occurred two days after…

Summary

Rating

Unmissable!

A powerful, heartfelt and community-driven theatrical experience.

The first time I saw Come From Away was on a school trip with my GCSE and A-level classes. As we left the theatre there was much discussion about the horrors of 9/11 and where we had been at the time. My manager recalled watching on television as the second plane hit the south tower. I shared how I was in primary school and remembered the adults being quite emotional that day. The eldest student on the trip, who had just turned eighteen, mentioned that he had no memory of the event, as it had occurred two days after he was born. One of the recurring themes in Come From Away is “you are here, at the start of a moment,” a sentiment that resonates with anyone who learns of the events of 11 September 2001, regardless of their age. There is no doubt that the world changed that day for everyone. This musical tells the story of those whose planes were grounded in the Newfoundland town of Gander and the community who showed them unparalleled kindness during the five days they stayed. It juxtaposes horrific evil with utterly selfless care.

The cast comprises twelve actors, all of whom are on stage constantly throughout the 100-minute running time. They switch between characters seamlessly, often portraying very different roles, and showcasing their immense talent. It is difficult to pick standout performers from this production, as they are all so strong. You can tell this group not only works exceptionally well together but also shares a genuine connection. They are a well-oiled machine with impressive comic timing who also hold the power to create poignant moments of warmth and contrasting darkness.

The band is as much a part of the cast as the actors; semi-hidden at the side of the stage for much of the show, they come to the forefront during the scene where the ‘come from aways’ become honorary Newfoundlanders. It is delightful to see them participate in this celebratory scene, and it is clear that everyone involved, audience included, is having a fantastic time. 

The music is exceptional, combining folk elements with instruments native to Newfoundland, such as the ‘Ugly Stick’. Some songs evoke raucous joy, while others are filled with intense emotion and reflection. A standout is the hauntingly beautiful track ‘Prayer’, which highlights how faith helped so many people stranded in Gander at that time.

The set is minimal, featuring only tables and chairs on a blank stage with a rustic backdrop, but the cast uses these elements innovatively to create various settings. Throughout the performance, these simple pieces transform into planes, buses, pubs, shelters — the list is endless. 

This gala performance was particularly special, as the director John Brant took to the stage at curtain call to pay tribute to Lydia Greatrix, a long-time Come From Away fan who has organised ‘pay it forward’ events at every venue that the musical has visited during its UK tour. She is a true inspiration, encapsulating the message of Come From Away: that being kind costs nothing and can change the world.

Although this story arises from a place of devastating tragedy, the production balances the seriousness of the subject matter with moments of pure light that highlight the beauty of human kindness. Come From Away is a truly special piece of theatre and genuinely unmissable. If you can’t catch it in Wimbledon, try to see it at one of its other venues on the tour.


Book, Music and Lyrics: Irene Sankoff & David Hein
Director: Christopher Ashley
Scenic Design: Beowulf Boritt
Musical Staging: Kelly Devine
Musical Supervisor: Alan Berry

Come From Away is playing at the New Wimbledon Theatre until Saturday 12th October, before continuing its UK tour.

More information and booking details are available here.
Find out more about its UK tour here

About Harriet Ruggiano

Harriet is a teacher in south west London specialising in music and the creative arts. She loves the theatre, craft nights and spending time with her godchildren (who she is steadily introducing to all the musical theatre greats!).