Whetstone Theatre Group's 'Come From Away' Earns Praise
The Whetstone Musical Theatre Group staged the 9/11-inspired musical at King Alfred Phoenix Theatre.
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The Whetstone Musical Theatre Group presented the musical 'Come From Away' at the King Alfred Phoenix Theatre between 15 July and 18 July. The production, which is based on the true events of the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent grounding of flights, played to sold-out audiences.
A Tale of Resilience and Community
The musical dramatises the experience of 38 passenger planes diverted to Gander, Newfoundland, after the United States closed its airspace on 11 September 2001. The small Canadian town accommodated nearly 7,000 stranded individuals for over a week. The Barnet Post reported that the production highlighted both the heartwarming aspects of people uniting during a crisis and more sombre moments, including the suspicion faced by a Muslim passenger.
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Critical Acclaim for Direction and Performance
Reviewers commended the direction by Owain Rose, noting how the intimate setting of the King Alfred Phoenix Theatre enhanced the performance. Musical direction by Katie Hainbach was also recognised for showcasing the score's beauty. The Barnet Post described the production as a 'complete delight'.
The ensemble cast was praised for its collective effort, with particular mention given to Jon Musker as the Mayor of Gander, James Clarke and Mark Sampson-Vincent portraying a couple navigating the unusual circumstances, and Emily Kennedy-Neal as a local resident concerned with the welfare of animal passengers. Other cast members highlighted by The Barnet Post included Zoe Mack, Matt Drage, Emma Pleass, Caroline Patel, Candice Sher, Catherine Raingold, David Berkovitch, Gavin Rodgers, Mickey Polon, and Lihi Livne.
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Catherine Raingold, who played Beulah and is the producer of the show, founded the Whetstone Musical Theatre Group in 2015. The performance on the night of the review was met with standing ovations and considerable appreciation from the audience.
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