The Gateway Playhouse in Bellport is bringing a story of extraordinary kindness to the local stage with its production of “Come From Away,” running through Sept. 6. The Tony Award-winning musical recounts the true story of a small Newfoundland community that welcomed thousands of stranded airline passengers following the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, “Come From Away” centers on Gander, Newfoundland, where 38 planes carrying nearly 7,000 passengers were diverted after U.S. airspace closed on Sept. 11. Local residents responded by providing food, shelter, transportation and companionship to travelers from around the world.

The Gateway production features a 12-member cast portraying both Gander residents and passengers, with performers frequently changing characters and accents throughout the 100-minute, intermission-free show. Keith Andrews directs and choreographs the production, while an onstage band brings the musical’s Celtic and Newfoundland-inspired score to life.

Nearly 25 years after the events that inspired it, the musical offers Long Island audiences an opportunity to revisit a difficult chapter in history through the experiences of ordinary people who responded with generosity and compassion.

“Come From Away” continues at The Gateway Playhouse in Bellport through Sept. 6, 2026. Tickets are available through the theater’s box office.

Source:Patch