Come From Away Theatre Royal Plymouth Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Linda Curtain
The amazing musical ‘Come from Away’ has arrived at the Theatre Royal Plymouth this week following phenomenal Broadway and West End success and what an incredible show it is!
Based on true events, Come from Away tells the story of how the lives of the residents in the small town of Gander on the island of Newfoundland were affected by the devastating 9/11 terrorist attack in New York. Following the attack, thirty-eight international aircraft were diverted to Newfoundland bringing over 7,000 passengers to the island. This heartwarming story spans the five days following the 9/11 attack when the residents of Newfoundland opened their arms and hearts to the new arrivals – or ‘come from awayers’ they became known.
It was amazing to see the organisation that was immediately put into place to cater for these passengers. Basics like clothing, food and accommodation were sorted with the whole community pulling together to welcome and reassure the arrivals. There were such an eclectic mix of people to cater for from babies to the elderly, all nationalities and cultures plus animals that were being transported all needing attention. Dietary, medical conditions and communication issues all needed addressing.
In the musical, each character is based on a real individual who was involved in the event. From the commencement the power of kindness and community was the backbone of the story. The rousing opening song ‘Welcome to the Rock’ set the tone for the show and from the outset the audience was totally absorbed and fascinated by the characters and unfolding story.
What an amazing cast of actors each playing multiple roles with slick costume changes to give the impression of larger numbers of people on the plane and island. Actors swiftly changed from Gander residents to plane people with incredible attention to detail and body language. The panic and despair that the people on the plane were feeling when they were suddenly, inexplicably diverted was palpable.
Each actor had such an individual role to play and they all bought so much energy and passion to the story. Beverley – played by Sara Poyzer – was great as the first female US air pilot who had to take control of the unfolding situation. Amanda Henderson as Beulah – a school teacher in Gander – was convincing as she organised everything for the unexpected arrivals and her relationship with and support for Hannah – played by Bree Smith – whose firefighter son was missing was very touching. Nicholas Pound as Claude the town mayor was a strong character as he tried to cope with a community that had doubled in size overnight.
Directed by Christopher Ashley and with book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, this production has it all. Fantastic live music directed by Andrew Corcoran – the musicians appearing onstage with the cast for some of the Gaelic folk songs and incredible staging with props being moved effortlessly by the cast as part of the choreography, all added to the perfection of this production.
An instant, well deserved standing ovation – even before the rousing finale was completed – showed how much the audience last enjoyed and appreciated this amazing show.
A heart warming story portraying the power of community spirit from a talented, committed cast of actors. An outstanding and thought provoking theatre piece.
Totally amazing!!!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £26
Come From Away is at the Theatre Royal Plymouth until 13th April 2024
https://theatreroyal.com/whats-on/come-from-away/
For more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com