Gander- Where Kindness and Hope Take Flight (Hayswood Theatre)
Come From Away
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein
Original Broadway Production from Junkyard Dog Productions
Orchestrations by August Eriksmoen, Arrangements by Ian Eisendrath
Directed by Allen Platt and Emily Trinkle
Review by Erin Hargan
Entire contents are copyright © 2026 Erin Hargan. All rights reserved.
Come From Away has been in production since 2015, and Hayswood Theatre’s production of this beloved musical brings its powerful story to life with heart and sincerity. Based on the true events that took place in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, after the September 11 attacks, the musical follows the passengers and crew of 38 planes who were forced to land there when U.S. airspace was closed. What begins as an unexpected disruption becomes a moving story of kindness, generosity, and human connection as the people of Gander open their homes and hearts to strangers from around the world. Hayswood Theatre captures that spirit beautifully, with a cast that brings both energy and warmth to a production that balances humor with deeply moving moments and reminds audiences of the compassion people can show during difficult times.
One of the most challenging aspects of Come From Away is its demanding multi-role casting, with actors taking on several different characters throughout the musical. Each role requires a distinct personality, and the actors often have to make quick transitions from one character to another. Hayswood Theatre’s cast handles these changes smoothly, making each character recognizable and memorable while keeping the story moving. It is difficult to single out one standout performance because the entire ensemble works so well together, and in a story filled with so much heart, every character has a role to play. The strength of the cast comes from how well they bring all of these different people and their stories together, creating a production that feels warm, genuine, and deeply moving.
The staging also works well to support the story. Rather than relying on elaborate scenery, the production uses the stage to quickly shift between the airport, the town, and the various places where the characters find themselves. This keeps the focus on the actors and the stories they are telling while allowing the action to move smoothly from one scene to the next. The simple staging fits the spirit of the musical, which is ultimately more about the people and their connections than the surroundings.
The music and choreography add plenty of energy to the production. The musical numbers move easily between upbeat, lively moments and quieter, more emotional ones, giving the cast opportunities to show both their musical and performance skills. The choreography works especially well with the ensemble, creating a sense of movement and excitement without distracting from the story. The cast moves smoothly through the musical numbers, and the combination of music, singing, and choreography helps capture the warmth, humor, and spirit of the people of Gander while also reflecting the uncertainty and hope experienced by the passengers who suddenly found themselves stranded far from home.
Hayswood Theatre’s Come From Away is a moving reminder of the kindness and compassion people can show during difficult times. The talented ensemble, lively music, and heartfelt story come together to create an enjoyable and meaningful evening of theater. It is a production that celebrates community, connection, and the unexpected ways people can come together when they need each other most.
Come From Away
Hayswood Theatre
September 17-27, 2026
115 S Capitol Ave
Corydon, IN
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