NMU Theatre & Dance presents “Come From Away”

Northern Michigan University Theatre & Dance will present "Come From Away," an award-winning play written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Thursday-Saturday, Sept. 24-26 and Oct. 1-3, at the Forest Roberts Theatre.

The musical follows airline passengers stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, after U.S. airspace closed on Sept. 11, 2001, bringing together the different languages, cultures and life experiences of strangers, ultimately creating lasting relationships, friendships and memories.

For director Aaron Houston, the production carries a personal connection. Houston was in Japan when the attacks occurred and said his experience in the days following 9/11 mirrored many of the moments depicted in the musical.

"Directing a show as emotionally impactful as 'Come From Away' is a deeply personal project for me," Houston said.

Houston and other members of the touring group watched news coverage of the attacks from their hotel rooms, eventually gathering together for comfort. When he returned to Manhattan the following week, he witnessed a city coming together through candlelight vigils, strangers embracing and gathering around St. Paul's Church to view missing-person posters.

Houston said working on the production has brought back emotions he had suppressed for years while also helping him heal. He credited the cast for approaching the subject matter with grace, sensitivity and vulnerability.

"They have brought their hearts and talents so openly throughout our process," Houston said. "I am so proud of the work they have done with the subject matter."

At the center of "Come From Away" is the community of Gander, Newfoundland, which opened its doors to thousands of stranded passengers in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Houston said the story's emphasis on community and empathy is what makes the musical especially meaningful.

"I believe this production can be a healing force for good," Houston said. "I hope that this experience allows the audience permission to help cope with the stresses of daily life, embrace others with joy and warmth who may be experiencing difficulty and heal from trauma through kindness and love."

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m., with a 1 p.m. sensory-friendly Theatre For All matinee Saturday, Sept. 26, and an additional 1 p.m. regular matinee on Oct. 3. Tickets are $25 for the general public; $22 for NMU employees, seniors and military; $15 for youth; and $5 for NMU students. They can be purchased at nmu.universitytickets.com.