The critically acclaimed musical “Come From Away” about the events following the national tragedy of 9/11 is set to return to the stage in Massachusetts this weekend, and the remarkable story of human kindness and community is something you won’t want to miss.
“Come From Away” will be playing April 11-13, 2025, at The Hanover Theatre in Worcester, Mass. The show follows the true events that took place after Sept. 11, 2001, when, following the attack on the World Trade Center, all active flights had to conduct an emergency landing anywhere outside of the United States. Thirty-eight planes landed on the small island of Newfoundland, Canada.
The narrative of the musical highlights both the humor and the emotional highs and lows of the situation, as well as the hospitality of the Newfoundland residents who welcomed nearly 7,000 stranded passengers with open arms.
Tyler Olshansky-Bailon plays passenger Diane, along with a multitude of other roles. She has been acting since she was only 13 years old, and joined the “Come From Away” company in August 2024.
Olshansky-Bailon expressed her love for the show, highlighting that it doesn’t cater to a specific target audience. There’s something for everyone, she said, as all backgrounds, ages and appearances are reflected in the cast of characters.
“[It] really plays to a lot of different audiences,” she stated. “It’s funny, it’s also sad, but it’s also so uplifting, and I truly think that there’s just something for everyone.”
The set is minimal, yet still engaging for the audience. There is not a traditional set; the setting is created by the cast on stage simply by using chairs and tables. Also, many of the main members of the cast portray multiple roles, as demonstrated by Olshansky-Bailon. Audiences should watch for actors quickly switching roles by changing props, or rearranging chairs to change the setting.
The simplicity of the production allows for the story’s foundation of love, community, hospitality, and kindness to shine through, celebrating the goodness found in humanity amidst tragedy.
Olshansky-Bailon reflected on this concept, stating, “With all the craziness going on in the world right now, […] I think this is a great play about just human kindness at its core.”
The show is fast-paced, running for 1 hour 43 minutes with no intermission. It is generally rated PG-13, but many recommend it for ages 10 and up. Tickets for “Come From Away” are available for purchase, starting at $52. Click HERE to purchase tickets through The Hanover Theatre’s website.
–April 10, 2025–
