Denver School of the Arts Brings Come From Away to the Stage This October

A powerful story of kindness, community, and humanity is coming to the stage at Denver School of the Arts this October.

From October 15–24, Denver School of the Arts will present Come From Away, the critically acclaimed musical based on the true story of what happened in a small Newfoundland town following September 11, 2001.

The production also offers an opportunity for members of the Central Park community to reflect on their own experiences and memories of that day.

A Story About What Happened After 9/11

Come From Away tells the true story of Gander, Newfoundland, a small community that suddenly found itself at the center of an international crisis.

After U.S. airspace closed on September 11, 2001, 38 planes carrying thousands of passengers from around the world were diverted to Gander’s airport.

What followed was anything but an ordinary day in the small town.

The people of Gander welcomed the stranded travelers into their community, opening their homes and offering food, music, and hospitality while navigating language barriers, cultural differences, and an unprecedented situation.

What began as a crisis turned into an unexpected story of connection and generosity.

A Story About Humanity

Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Come From Away has received international acclaim, earning 37 award nominations and 13 wins, including Best New Musical at the 2019 Olivier Awards and Outstanding Musical at the 2017 Drama Desk Awards.

At its heart, though, the musical is about much more than its awards.

It’s a story about kindness, resilience, and what can happen when people come together during an incredibly difficult moment.

For Denver School of the Arts students, bringing this story to the stage is an opportunity to share that message with their own community.

A Chance to Share Local Stories

The production also raises an interesting question for Central Park residents: What do you remember about September 11, 2001?

For those who lived through that day, the memories can be deeply personal. Some may remember where they were when they heard the news, how their families responded, or how the events changed the way they viewed their community and the world.

Hearing those experiences from people right here in Central Park could offer another meaningful perspective on the story behind Come From Away.

See Both Casts

The production will be double-cast, allowing more Denver School of the Arts students to participate in the performance.

The school recommends seeing both casts, as each group of students brings its own interpretation and energy to this moving story.

For information about which students are performing in each cast, contact the box office at 720-424-1713.

Come From Away

October 15–24
Denver School of the Arts

Whether you’re already familiar with the musical or experiencing it for the first time, Come From Away offers a powerful reminder that even in some of the darkest moments in history, people have the ability to show up for one another.

Sometimes the most powerful stories aren’t just about what happened. They’re about how people chose to respond.