OBSERVER: Come From Away
A musical beget from the tragedy of the 9/11 terrorist attack event that changed many things forever.
Book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff (librettist and lyricist) and David Hein (writer) her husband put the small Newfoundland town of Gander (locally called ‘The Rock’) on the map with Come From Away, when some 38 planes containing over 6,700 people, were grounded at the Gander Airport as the air space in New York was closed.
Geelong’s Centre Stage Theatre carefully crafted a superlative production under acclaimed Director Matthew Henderson.
A confronting story, yet heart-warming as we see the small community open up their hearts, souls and the town to help the stranded travelers of many cultures.
In staging Come From Away at the hi-tech Geelong Arts Centre, Centre Stage built a two part floor revolve, stage that was used seamlessly in delivering the story with its many changes in location.
The assembled multitalented cast played without hesitation their role of either town resident or one of the stranded travellers, changing their character portrayal with ease.
Pivotal was the leadership shown by versatile Duncan Esler as Mayor Claude Elliott who led the town through the many challenges, “it was just something we had to do”, whether by feeding them, providing temporary clothing or
accommodating them and providing daily essentials.
The remaining cast of 11 all stood tall with masterful performances and with split second timing, in changes whether with vocals, dance or dialogue.
Beverley Bass as Bronte Wright gave an emotional rendition of ‘Somewhere in the Middle of Nowhere’ , a poignant moment with the tourists returning home.
Persuasive was Felicity Cartwright as Buelah, the total organiser, strong and determined.
We cannot overlook Sally-Anne Cowdell as Diane and Brad Beales as Nick, strangers who turned lovers while Andrew Lorenzo as Kevin T and Nelfio Di Marco as Kevin J working through their relationship.
Mat Dwyer as Oz the policeman portrayed many characters with conviction.
Musical Director Tom Fernee and Choreographer Natalya Munro provided a memorable backing and with toe-tapping movement throughout, all supported by well credentialed Technical and Staging teams.
All a credit to the Centre Stage team under Managing Director, David Greenwood.
Review by Graeme McCoubrie