There’s something profoundly human about stories that remind us how we rise when the world falls apart. Twenty-five years after 9/11, the musical Come From Away isn’t just a show—it’s a mirror held up to the best and worst of humanity. And in a time when divisiveness often dominates headlines, its message feels more urgent than ever. I’ve seen countless productions over the years, but this one, staged by Birmingham’s Red Mountain Theatre, feels different. It’s not just about the planes or the chaos. It’s about the quiet, unspoken pact we make with strangers when the world stops making sense. That’s what makes this story so hauntingly relevant today.
The Power of Unlikely Hospitality
Let’s talk about Gander, Newfoundland. A town of 10,000 people suddenly hosting 7,000 stranded travelers. Think about that: a place where the population was already stretched thin, yet they opened their homes, their hearts, and even their bars. What does that say about human nature? Personally, I think it reveals something deeply buried in us all—a yearning to connect, even in the face of fear. The musical doesn’t dwell on the horror of 9/11; it focuses on September 12, when the world’s collective grief gave way to something else: generosity. It’s a narrative that challenges the myth that tragedy breeds only division. In my opinion, this is where the story’s genius lies. It doesn’t sanitize the trauma, but it insists on the possibility of grace in the aftermath.
Local Voices, Global Themes
What makes this Birmingham production particularly fascinating is the cast. Almost entirely Alabama-based performers, many of whom have shared stages here for years. There’s an intimacy in that. When I think about the actors embodying characters from Gander, it’s not just about accents or costumes—it’s about shared experiences. DaWoyne Hill, who plays a character grappling with the silence of that day, remembers being a ninth grader in Shades Valley, watching the world collapse in real time. That personal history adds layers to his performance. It’s not just acting; it’s living the story. What many people don’t realize is how deeply regional storytelling can amplify universal truths. When a Southern cast tells a Canadian tale, it becomes a bridge—a reminder that kindness knows no borders.
The Theater as a Time Machine
I’ve always believed that live theater is a kind of time machine. You step into a room, and suddenly you’re not just watching a story—you’re experiencing it. This production, with its relentless energy and shifting characters, demands that you lean in. The cast plays multiple roles without a break, which is exhausting, but it’s also symbolic. It mirrors the chaos of those days in Gander, where everyone had to adapt, improvise, and care for strangers. A detail that I find especially interesting is how the show uses humor and music to balance the gravity of the subject. It’s a delicate tightrope walk, and the Birmingham team seems to have mastered it. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just a musical—it’s a lesson in resilience. It asks: What would you do if your town suddenly became the world’s emergency shelter? And more importantly, what would you learn about yourself in the process?
Why This Matters Now
Here’s the thing: We’re living in a world that’s increasingly fractured. Algorithms feed us echo chambers, and polarization feels inevitable. Yet Come From Away offers a counter-narrative. It’s a reminder that we’re all just people trying to make sense of the chaos. What this really suggests is that the human spirit is far more resilient than we give it credit for. The show’s creators didn’t just write a script—they crafted a blueprint for how to respond to crisis with empathy. In my view, that’s a message we need to hear louder than ever. And if you’re in Birmingham, this is your chance to witness it. The production runs from August 21 through September 20, 2026, with shows that will likely sell out fast. Don’t miss it. Because while the world may be changing, stories like this—about ordinary people doing extraordinary things—remain timeless. And in a time when we need them most, they’re more vital than ever.
