Come From Away: The true story behind the musical based on 9/11
The musical Come From Away is a worldwide smash hit – but what’s the real story? This is what really happened in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland.
Image: Gordon Wheaton / Shutterstock.com
Come From Away is an award-winning musical that has captivated audiences since it was first released in 2015. Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, this show tells the story of the Newfoundland town of Gander during the weeks following the September 11 attacks.
When 38 planes were forced to land at Gander International Airport, the small town’s population doubled overnight. The compassion and hospitality shown by the residents of Gander and surrounding communities make up the bulk of the story, turning a moment of global tragedy into a powerful tale of human kindness.
But what is the true story behind this musical? How different were the events that took place in real life?
Operation Yellow Ribbon
On 11th September 2001, the world watched as a series of terror attacks hit the United States. In response to these horrific events, the U.S. airspace was quickly closed, leading to Operation Yellow Ribbon.
This was a coordinated effort by Transport Canada to divert incoming international flights to various airports across Canada. By taking this action, the U.S. and Canadian governments ensured the safety of passengers and prevented any additional terror attacks from occurring.
Gander in Newfoundland
The town of Gander, Newfoundland has a long history as a strategic aviation hub. Because of this, it became a critical waypoint during Operation Yellow Ribbon. Gander International Airport was once the largest in the world and had served as a refuelling stop for many transatlantic flights during the pre-jet age.
Though its importance as an aviation hub had faded in the years leading up to 2001, it still had an impressive capacity and was able to handle large numbers of aircraft.
7,000 passengers land
As 38 planes landed at Gander in the wake of the attacks, nearly 7,000 passengers from around the world found themselves stranded in a small town far from home.
The residents of Gander and many neighbouring communities such as Appleton, Norris Arm and Lewisporte all sprang into action, transforming their schools, community centres and homes into shelters for stranded passengers.
Volunteers stood up and worked tirelessly to provide them with food, clothing and emotional support. Many of these passengers were in states of shock and confusion because of the events unfolding in the United States.
The events that inspired the musical
The musical Come From Away uses this real story as the framework for its narrative. Weaving together multiple stories of passengers and townspeople, the show creates a story that reveals the chaos and humanity of these real events.
Many characters in the show are based on real individuals, including Gander’s mayor, residents and airline personnel. Each of these characters brings a unique perspective to the unfolding events. The story of the musical shows moments of fear and uncertainty, but also important moments of unexpected joy and friendship.
Beverley Bass was the first female captain for American Airlines. On 11th September 2001, she was piloting a flight from Paris to Dallas which was diverted to Gander. In the musical, Beverley is represented by a character of the same name, who captures her spirit and leadership.
Her journey is reflected in the song Me and the Sky, recounting her groundbreaking career and the impact of the events of that September. Beverley was extensively interviewed for the musical, ensuring that her story was authentically represented.
Creating the musical
The creation of Come From Away began 10 years after the attacks. Writers Irene Sankoff and David Hein connected with Gander residents and former passengers and recorded their memories and emotions to produce an authentic narrative.
Although there are many parts of the musical that are fictionalised, it remains strikingly close to real life in many ways and has resonated with audiences worldwide. Sankoff and Hein condensed hours of interviews into a 100-minute show, creating a narrative that shows some of the most striking and heartwarming experiences.
A tribute to unsung heroes
Come From Away launched to international success. It debuted on Broadway in 2017 and became a hit with the box office and critics.
The central message of the show is to celebrate the humanity shown by residents of Gander and its orbiting communities. They are just one example of the unsung heroes of 9/11 – showing that even in a time of immense crisis, the best of humanity can still shine through.
