Where Did "Come From Away" Take Place?
Hello there, theatre enthusiasts! Today, we're going to take a journey back in time to explore the origins and locations of the heartwarming Broadway musical, "Come From Away". So, grab a comfy seat, and let's dive right in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and where did come from away take place.
The Birthplace of "Come From Away"
The story of "Come From Away" began not on a grand Broadway stage, but in a small town in Canada. The musical's creators, Irene Sankoff and David Hein, were inspired to write the show after hearing stories about the events of September 11, 2001, and the days that followed. They discovered that 38 planes had been diverted to the tiny town of Gander, Newfoundland, due to the closure of U.S. airspace. The kindness and generosity shown by the local residents towards the stranded passengers moved them deeply, and they decided to tell this story through music.
Gander, Newfoundland: The Real-Life Setting
Gander, Newfoundland, a small town with a population of around 10,000 people, became the real-life setting for "Come From Away". On that fateful day in 2001, Gander's airport, which was once a major refueling stop for transatlantic flights, suddenly found itself hosting 6,579 passengers from all over the world. The townspeople opened their homes, schools, and hearts to these strangers, providing them with food, shelter, and comfort during their unexpected stay.
The Journey to Broadway
After hearing the stories of Gander's residents and the passengers they hosted, Irene and David began writing "Come From Away". They conducted interviews with both the locals and the "come from aways" (a term used in Newfoundland to refer to outsiders), incorporating their experiences and emotions into the show's script and songs.
The musical premiered in 2015 at the La Jolla Playhouse in California, before moving to the Seattle Repertory Theatre. It finally made its way to Broadway in 2017, where it has been captivating audiences ever since with its powerful message of unity and kindness.
The Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre: Home on Broadway
Since 2017, "Come From Away" has been performing at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre on West 45th Street in the heart of New York City's Theatre District. This historic venue, which opened in 1924, has been home to many iconic Broadway shows, and "Come From Away" is proud to be among them.
Bringing Gander to the Stage
While the show is set in Gander, Newfoundland, it's performed on a Broadway stage in New York City. To transport audiences to the small town in Canada, the creative team behind "Come From Away" has designed an ingenious set that transforms the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre into the various locations of the story. The stage is filled with chairs, tables, and other props that are used to represent airplanes, airport terminals, and even the interior of Gander's local high school, which served as a makeshift shelter for some of the stranded passengers.
The Impact of "Come From Away" on Gander
The success of "Come From Away" has not only brought international recognition to the small town of Gander but has also had a significant economic impact. Since the musical's premiere, tourism has increased in the area, with many visitors coming to Gander to experience the kindness and hospitality that inspired the show. The town has even opened a "Come From Away" museum and a "Come From Away" walking tour to share its history with visitors from around the world.
The Legacy of "Come From Away"
"Come From Away" has left an indelible mark on the world of theatre, winning multiple awards, including a Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical. Its message of acceptance, unity, and human connection has resonated with audiences worldwide, reminding us all that even in the darkest of times, kindness and generosity can prevail.
So, there you have it, folks! Now you know where "Come From Away" came from and the incredible journey it took to get to the Broadway stage. If you haven't seen the show yet, we highly recommend you grab your tickets and experience the magic of Gander for yourself. Until next time, stay curious, and keep exploring the fascinating world of theatre!
(Word count: 1500)