9/11-inspired musical offers songs of hope and kindness

By ADAM CROWE
A Seat on the Aisle

In 2022, Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) was facing a changing of the guard. Longtime Artistic Director Janet Allen was being succeeded by Benjamin Hanna. Hanna and his team addressed these difficulties, in part, by going back to the IRT’s roots and presenting full-sized musicals.

Thus far, the experiment has been a huge artistic success.

This month, IRT closes its 2025-26 Season with a terrific production of the multi-Tony Award nominated musical Come From Away.

Conceived by Michael Rubinoff, with book and score by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Come From Away begins on September 11, 2001, in the tiny Canadian town of Gander, Newfoundland. We meet the citizens of Gander and learn how they faced the arrival of 38 flights grounded at their airport, once a hot spot for refueling planes for trans-Atlantic travel. The number of travelers suddenly arriving “from away,” almost 7,000 in total, is overwhelming, but the Canadians step up and do what they can to provide shelter, food, and calm. The grace, wit, and comfort provided to the visitors is returned in equal measure. The story is a wonderful reminder of human decency and empathy in the face of unimaginable loss.

Director James Vásquez excels at introducing us to both the Islanders and those from away. The musical itself weaves stories of locals and foreigners in a beautifully realized tapestry of stories and song. The cast of 12 portrays all of these folks and does so seamlessly.

The orchestra, led by Angie Benson, sits just upstage of the action and fills the old Indiana Theatre with songs of sadness and kindness. Choreography from Terra C. Macleod is equally spirited. The scenic design by Diggle is incredibly bold and inventive. Lighting is by Zach Blane, with costumes by IRT veteran Tracy Dorman and a beautiful sound design by Uptownworks collaborative.

Bottom Line: Come From Away closes in less than three weeks, so your window of opportunity is closing. This story of tragedy surmounted by hope and kindness is a balm for the soul. Do yourself the favor of getting your tickets SOON. Whether you remember September 11 or have grown up in its history, IRT tells a tale of those events filled with emotion, courage and an affirmation of life that is not to be missed.

Come From Away runs through May 10 at The Indiana Repertory Theatre in downtown Indianapolis. Tickets are available irtlive.com.

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