The cast of “Come From Away” at Ford’s Theatre. Photo by Scott Suchman.
As the world reflects on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Ford’s Theatre presents a fitting commemoration with “Come From Away,” a captivating, cathartic musical based on the real-life events and experiences that followed that fateful day. Emotionally charged and poignant, the Tony Award-winning production, directed by Kevin S. McAllister and featuring the book, music, and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, tells the remarkable story of how the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, welcomed and took in nearly 7,000 stranded airline passengers after 38 planes were diverted there on September 11, 2001.
…a joyful, heartfelt celebration of compassion and human connection.
Through stirring folk, rock, and Celtic-influenced numbers led by music director Mason Moss, and fluid, yet tightly woven, choreography by Katy Tabb, the talented company seamlessly combines storytelling with song as they shift between multiple roles. In the rousing opening number, “Welcome to the Rock,” the ensemble sets an energetic tone while providing some historical context of Gander. The company then masterfully recounts the unfolding crisis in “38 Planes” and “28 Hours/Wherever We Are,” using clever staging to mix news accounts with the moving experiences of the passengers as they faced uncertainty. “Costume Party” delves deeper, sharing details of the lives of the locals and the “plane people” just passing through.
A gifted creative team beautifully brings this authentic and rugged, northern setting to life. Making her debut at Ford’s Theatre, scenic designer Emily Lotz creates a space featuring towering wooden walls against open sky, anchored by simple tables, chairs, luggage, and other elements on a central turntable that transforms the stage into a poignant memorial across time and space. Costume design by Paris Francesca, lighting by Xavier Pierce, and the sound design by David Budries further elevate the phenomenal production.
Expect several emotional peaks throughout “Come From Away,” including standout individual performances, such as Sarah Corey as Hannah, delivering a deeply moving “I Am Here” as a mother searching for her son, comforted by Kelli Blackwell as Beulah. The full company reunites for “Prayer,” a loving call for finding peace and light amidst the darkness. Later, Housson Sémon as Beverly commands the stage with the powerful solo “Me and the Sky,” while Joe Mallon as Nick and Caitlin Brooke as Diane bring playful affection and sweet tenderness during “Stop the World.” Finally, the entire company ends on a high note with “Somewhere in the Middle of Nowhere,” leaving the audience with a joyful, heartfelt celebration of compassion and human connection.
Running Time: One hour and 45 minutes with no intermission.
“Come From Away” EXTENDED through October 25, 2026, at Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, Washington, DC. For more information and to purchase tickets, call (888) 616-0270 or go online.
