The True Story behind Come From Away at Hershey Theatre

Hershey Theatre is excited to welcome the North American touring production of “Come From Away” for eight shows over the holidays on December 26-31, 2023. Keep reading below to learn more about the true story behind one of Broadway's most heartwarming musicals. 

ABOUT THE SHOW

“Come From Away” is based on the true story of the selflessness and compassion shown by residents of the small Canadian town of Gander, Newfoundland following the attacks on September 11, 2001. Once a major transatlantic fueling stop, the airport in Gander did not have much air traffic until 38 planes were rerouted there due to the closure of the American airspace. In the week following September 11, residents of Gander worked together to care for a population that had doubled its own. 

In the musical, each cast member plays multiple parts, with several being on stage at all times throughout the show to help tell the stories of both the plane passengers and Gander residents. Among the characters are the first-ever female captain of an American Airlines plane, the mayor of Gander, a couple who meets on their flight and forms a bond throughout their displacement, and many more.

The book, music, and lyrics for the show were written by David Hein and Irene Sankoff, who traveled to Newfoundland to interview the plane passengers and Gander residents to gather true material to incorporate into the show. While “Come From Away” centers on a tragedy, the musical focuses on the friendships, romance, and connections that were formed because Gander residents lent a helping hand to those who needed it most.

A show fit for the season, “Come From Away” is one you can't miss seeing in Hershey, Pa. Grab your tickets now to the shows through Dec. 31, 2023.