Come From Away

The Musical Theatre Company were back on stage with the newly released to amateurs, ‘Come From Away’, which was directed by Ben Ireson. This was a huge production for any company to undertake, and TMTC must be congratulated for producing this well-loved musical. Ben injected heart and community into the production, feeding into the ethos of the group, with hats being passed around the audience coinciding with Bob’s line in ’38 Planes Reprise/Somewhere’. The money raised from the audience donations would then be used by TMTC to offer complimentary tickets as part of their Community Fund. An excellent idea that complimented the message of the musical so well. ‘Come From Away’ is very much an ensemble show, and Ben had gathered 17 performers to bring the story to life, with 5 of these as onstage swings, who added greatly to the ensemble numbers. The storytelling throughout was true and honest, allowing for moments of joy and sorrow. The pace throughout was very good, and Ben allowed moments of stillness during the performance for the audience to reflect on the story. The set reflected that of the original professional production, with a slatted wooden backdrop, trees, and chairs and tables. The movement of the chairs and tables to create different locations from the plane to buses to Tim Horton’s was secure throughout, and done effortlessly by the cast. The joy of this production is the simplicity of costume. Adding a piece of clothing instantly transforms the actor into another character. Costumes allowed for the easy access and removal in these changes. They suited each character well.

Michael J Scott was the musical director for this production. It was a joy to hear the traditional instruments being played, which added greatly to the production. The vocals from the cast were strong, both individually and collectively. The balance between the high energy numbers and the softer moments was well by directed by Michael, allowing the audience to go on an emotional rollercoaster through the music. Both Michael and Ste Jones (drummer) travelled to Gander over the summer, and were lucky enough to sit in the pit for a performance of ‘Come From Away’. They were also screeched in as official Newfoundlanders during their visit. What a special memory!

Ceris Shadwell was the choreographer for this production. The choreography was performed well by the cast, and looked completely natural. As previously mentioned, the movement with the chairs and tables was very good throughout.

Technical elements were strong throughout this production. The sound balance was great, with a good mix between the band and the cast mics. Every word could be heard. The lighting design was complex, and the colours used throughout were good. There were a few instances where some of the lighting cues could have been sharper, but overall it was good.

Clare Shutt played Diane and others. This was a very good portrayal from Clare. The softness in her interactions Nick, and the realisation that she was falling in love under horrible circumstances was wonderfully played.

Maria Ames played Hannah and others. Maria brought a quiet determination to the role of Hannah as she tried to find out the fate of her son. This was a dignified performance from Maria. The worry was etched on Maria’s face throughout.

Rachael Benfield played Janice and others. Rachael displayed a great sense of optimism at the beginning as the new news reporter, Janice. The change in demeanour as she was thrust into the world’s spotlight was well played by Rachael.

Alison Brander played Beulah and others. Alison brought a caring side to the character, and was very much a mother hen to the stranded passengers. The relationship that she built up with Hannah was sincere and believable.

Emma Benson played Bonnie and others. Bonnie is a wonderful character, and Emma brought out the caring attributes of this character well. She showed the grit of the character, as she fought for advocating for the animals stranded.

Hannah Young played Beverley and others. Hannah did very well playing Beverley, putting on a strong, professional front. Her vocals during ‘Me and the Sky’ were fantastic, showing great storytelling through song. Hannah was also able to show a great sense of comedy in her role as Annette and her interactions with the Virgin Atlantic pilot (played with a lot of confidence and strut by Ric Gauld).

Jonathan Hall played Nick and others. This was another believable performance from Jonathan. His nervousness as the British Nick was evident, which contrasted nicely with his relaxed demeanour when with Diane. Jonathan created a believable relationship with Clare.

Oliver Ball played Claude and others. This was a convincing performance from Oliver as the Mayor of Gander. He commanded the stage well from the very beginning. His iterations of the other local Mayors added to the humour of the production.

Joel Merry played Kevin J and others. This was a good performance from Joel. He worked well with James as the Kevins, creating a believable relationship. ‘Prayer’ is a particular favourite number, and Joel led the cast well through this number.

Nick Livesey played Oz and others. Nick’s Oz was suitably relaxed as Oz, adding some great humour to the role. Nick gave a natural performance in this role, and was well cast.

James Radhi played Kevin T and others. This was a great performance from James. He was suitably flamboyant as Kevin T, whilst showing a softer and vulnerable side to Ali. The scene where Ali is searched at the airport was harrowing, as he experienced the instant prejudice experienced as a Muslim man after the attack. A wholly convincing characterisation.

Keisha Golden played Bob and others. Keisha was very good as Bob, showing his initial trepidation at being stranded in Gander to not wanting to leave, due to how much happier he was there.

The Swings (Emma Anderson, Ric Gauld, Christie Golden, Amy Harvey and Vicki Wood) played smaller roles as part of the production, and added greatly to the production vocally.

Overall, this was a near perfect production. The storytelling throughout was of a high standard, the music was performed very well, and the direction throughout was sincere.

A big thank you to everyone at The Musical Theatre Company for their kind invite and their hospitality.

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