News Desk March 5th, 2019
As Broadway's latest import, Come From Away has marked itself as one of London's biggest shows by sweeping up nine Olivier Award nominations! The musical, which opened last month, is one of the most nominated shows at this year's ceremony.
Come From Away's nominations include; Best New Musical, Best Director for Christopher Ashley, Best Sound Design, Best Lighting Design, Best Theatre Choreographer for Kelly Devine, Best Actress in a Supporting Role In A Musical for Rachel Tucker, Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical for both Clive Carter and Robert Hands and the nomination for Outstanding Achievement in Music.
What is Come From Away about?
Based on true events, Come From Away follows the events of September 11th, 2001, when, far away from New York, 38 transatlantic flights are grounded in the small town of Gander, New Foundland. With the US airspace closed, 7000 people emerge from the planes into a surreal reality, and despite almost doubling the town's population, are welcomed with open hearts, minds and arms.
Although the horrors of that day are all too familiar, this is a story of hope told from the perspective of a handful of passengers and Gander residents, who wholeheartedly welcomed the stranded travellers into their homes - and into their lives. Among the characters are American Airlines' first female pilot, a gay couple both called Kevin, and an Egyptian chef, who fears a frosty reception from the community - only to be proved wrong entirely. Weaving together all of their storylines, the show creates an affirming portrait of human connection in the most trying of circumstances.
Come From Away is now playing at the Phoenix Theatre.
it takes all of ten seconds to be in its generous embrace...It calls for quicksilver, charismatic acting and singing. It gets it from this versatile cast. It's an evening that, frankly, gets everything right.
The Times
