In mid-September 2001, 38 planes with over 6,500 passengers landed unexpectedly in Gander, Newfoundland, a remote island off Canada’s east coast. U.S. airspace had been shut down in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
The town’s 10,000 residents hosted people from all over the world for nearly a week. The “guests” spoke more than 100 languages. Meals were served, shelter and medications were provided, friends were made and lasting relationships were formed.
The hospitality of Gander and the connections made there has been captured and recreated in the award-winning musical, Come From Away. It’s been a hit on Broadway and in Toronto, London and Australia. And its touring production will land in Cincinnati for two weeks.
Assembled by Tony nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, the show distills events experienced by more than 16,000 people into 100 minutes that portray the innate goodness of humankind. A dozen actors play numerous passengers and locals, recreating people who met and embraced one another during the emotional moment.
Through Sept. 29. Tickets start at $30. Aronoff Center for the Arts, 650 Walnut St., Downtown, cincinnatiarts.org.
