Therry Theatre have ‘hit the jackpot’ with their latest production of Come From Away!
It is not so much a musical as an experience in compassion, simply but powerfully done.
Come From Away takes place during the days following 11th September 2001, when 38 planes carrying 7,000 air passengers were diverted to the town of Gander in Newfoundland. This small town, with a population of just 11,000, opened its doors to passengers from all over the world, providing shelter, food, and most importantly, kindness.
It is an amalgamation of hundreds of real-life stories from the people of Gander and those stranded there during the events of 9/11.
The creators, Irene Sankoff and David Hein, visited Newfoundland on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 to meet the locals and passengers who experienced this first-hand. These interviews and stories became the foundation of the musical, turning it into a genuine celebration of the kindness that emerged in those challenging days.
Therry Theatre and respected director David Sinclair have risen to the task of such a complex show and had the audience ‘on their feet’ at the conclusion of opening night. While the musical is based in a unit set with trees (Mark Rogers), some tables, chairs, and the orchestra lurking in the sides of the stage, it is the multiple characters and the ensemble (or ‘family’) nature of the piece that makes it challenging.
Sinclair knows the Arts Theatre stage (with its notorious sight lines) and has used every centimetre available to its best advantage. His characters are ‘real’ and we identify with their stories. His vision had many of the audience in tears at the conclusion of the piece.
He is ably assisted by Associate Director and Choreographer Linda Williams whose choreography is clever, and drives the piece along, particularly the opening and closing numbers.
Musical Director Peter Johns’ band hits all the right notes and includes the little heard bodhran (an Irish frame drum). Johns also plays the piano accordion and keyboards, no mean feat!
Lighting plays an important role in any musical and Mark Oakley’s lighting matches the emotions of each scene. There were a few late cues but these will disappear as the production continues. Allpro Audios’ sound adds clarity to the balance of singers and band.
In an ensemble (or family) production each cast member is of vital importance and it would be remiss of me not to name everyone –
Trevor Anderson – (Kevin J and a brilliant portrayal of Ali) gives the performance of a lifetime alternating a gay boyfriend with a Muslim Master Chef.
Kate Anolak – (Beulah and others) give her character depth with her compassionate performance. Her scenes with Hannah are heart breaking.
Michael Denholm – (Nick and others) adds a touch of comedy and romance as a frustrated Englishman who befriends and eventually marries Michelle Nightingale – (Diane and others). Watching their romance develop is a highlight.
Dee Farnell – (Beverley and others) shines as the pilot of the plane and its passengers that are the focus of the musical. She nails every scene, every note and is a standout. Her ‘Me and the Sky’ is a joy!
David Gauci – (Claude and others) as the Mayor of Gander is a lesson in acting, especially when he changes characters, literally at the ‘drop of a hat’.
Josh Kerr – (Oz and others) is an audience favourite, particularly his Italian character complete with long flowing hair!
Brady Lloyd – (Kevin T and others) adds a tender touch as one of the two ‘Kevins’ whose relationship breaks up over the Gander tradition of ‘kissing the fish’, or perhaps it was destined to breakup anyway?
Claire McEvoy – (Bonnie and others) gives a touching portrayal of the ‘keeper’ of the animals on the flight. Her last scene is tear-jerking.
Eloise Quinn-Valentine – (Janice and others) adds depth to the villagers and the passengers on the plane.
Lisa Simonetti – (Hannah and others) gives us a portrayal that any mother can identify with. Her ‘I am Here” is beautifully and emotionally sung.
Stephen Tongun – (Bob and others) – gives us an important viewpoint of the way people of colour are sometimes till treated in our society.
The cast also includes Shelley Crooks, Daniel Hamilton, Dominic Hodges, Michelle Tan, Katie Packer and who are not only swings but villagers as well.
Come From Away is an emotional roller coaster that is moving from start to finish, and adds vital dimension to 9/11 and the lives it affected. Bravo Therry Theatre for a superb evening!
To book tickets to Come From Away, please visit https://therry.org.au/.
Photographer: Andrew Trimmings
