Come From Away at Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre

Long before any Broadway performances began, a Canadian lawyer and theater producer named Micheal Rubinoff became captivated by the events that occurred in Gander, Newfoundland, following the terrorist attacks of 9/11. He ultimately choose the multi-talented lyricists and composers Irene Sankoff and David Hein to flesh out Come From Away’s story. This talented twosome gained a cult following from their edgy musical of My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding, making them a perfect match for this endeavor. 

Synopsis

Come From Away begins with an typical morning in Gander, Newfoundland. Like the rest of the world, the townsfolk had no idea that their lives and the globe at large would permanently transform. However, the traumatic occurrences of 9/11 begin unfolding, forcing nearby airliners to make emergency landings in Gander. 

The planes carried a total of 7,000 passengers of diverse cultures and nearly 20 animals. Red herrings and false information make matters more questionable for all parties involved. How will the Gander townsfolk accommodate their shocked and weary guests? Will the tension bring the passengers and locals closer or create discord? 

The passengers and even the pets eventually exit the white-knuckled environment of their aircrafts. Cultures clash between the Gander citizens and their surprise out-of-towners, and panic starts spreading as the crowd gradually realizes what happened. Fortunately, the locals ease these increasing stress by awarding honorary citizenship to the confused and traumatized Americans. 

Awards

Come From Away’s inspirational storytelling techniques earned it global stage time in Australia, the United States, London, and beyond. Much like the narrative it portrays, its original musical numbers, plot, and captivating characters cross borders. It earned Helen Hayes Awards, a Tony, Drama Desk Awards, and several others. 

Come From Away makes a stop at Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre at the Count Basie Center for the Arts’s stage in Red Bank, New Jersey. Check your flight schedule and purchase tickets for this Tuesday 15th April 2025 showing for just $83. Don’t miss this stirring odyssey into the past!