People & Culture

The legacy of Come From Away: How the hit musical continues to inspire audiences across North America

Episode 25

As political divides deepen, the globally renowned Canadian musical Come From Away is reminding audiences everywhere of the power of kindness and community

Oct 21, 2025

Duane Collins, owner of Hare Bay Adventures in Central Newfoundland.

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This past September, the New York Times reported that Come From Away, the Tony Award-winning musical about the aftermath of September 11, 2001, will be the most staged show in the United States this theatre season, according to American Theatre Magazine.

Mayor of Appleton, N.L., Derm Flynn (left) and his wife Diane, both of whom are depicted in Come From Away. Here, the two are pictured in front of the Appleton River Front Peace Park Park entrance that features a steel beam from the fallen Twin Towers.

Let that sink in.

At a time marked by deep political divides and social unrest, the story Americans most want to tell on stage is one about compassion, community and the kindness of their northern neighbours.

With its record-breaking runs on Broadway, in Toronto, London’s West End, and even in Gander itself now behind it, Come From Away is entering a new era — a grassroots appreciation of what this remarkable little show is all about. From Nashville, TN, to Milwaukee, WI, to Sarasota, FL., at least 23 regional theatres across the U.S. are bringing the people of Gander, N.L., back to life on their stages.

Perhaps now more than ever, the show’s message, that in moments of crisis, we can choose generosity over fear, feels urgently and beautifully relevant.

Special thanks to Jay Kipps Band for our theme song.

De’Lon Grant, a former Broadway Come From Away cast member hunting icebergs in Central Newfoundland.

Touring the historic Gander International Airport with its original mid-century furniture still intact.

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