The re-imagined production of Come from Away is now on stage at Paper Mill Playhouse through Sunday, March 1. The production, ingeniously directed and choreographed by Richard J. Hinds features actors playing music live on stage. As people are looking for positivity in our society, it’s the ideal time to see this wonderfully produced, entertaining show and appreciate its important messaging.
The story is based on actual events that took place on September 11, 2001 and the days that followed in Gander, Newfoundland and other locations. After the terrorist attacks in the United States, U.S. airspace was closed and planes were diverted to airports in Canada with Gander International Airport as the principal location. The town nearly doubled their population as they hosted almost 7,000 passengers from around the globe for five consecutive days. The Newfoundland residents offered a tremendous amount of hospitality with food, clothing, shelter, and friendship.
Inspired by a partnership with Pay It Forward 9/11, everyone who attends the show at the iconic Millburn Theatre is invited to promote consideration and unity in their own communities by “Paying It Forward” and performing acts of kindness to strangers, and in turn asking them to do the same. With over 35,000 audience members expected during the entire run, the Paper Mill community hopes to inspire a ripple effect of good deeds into Millburn, New Jersey, and beyond.
We had the opportunity to ask Richard J. Hinds, the Director and Choreographer of Come from Away about how he has seen the show affect theatergoers and promote their sense of altruism.
Hinds stated, “At its heart, Come from Away is a testament to the extraordinary power of ordinary compassion. Its enduring message transcends that specific historical moment to speak to a universal truth: that helping others is not reserved for grand, headline-making gestures. True connection is often forged in everyday acts of humanity—a held door, a simple hello, a hand offered to lift a heavy bag.”
He further pointed out, “Come from Away illustrates that when we set aside our differences, we can discover our shared humanity. In a world that often feels fractured, this narrative is more vital than ever. It reminds us that the littlest acts of generosity can indeed have the biggest impact, creating ripples of kindness that sustain us in our darkest hours. Come from Away doesn’t just tell a story of one incredible week; it extends a gentle, persistent invitation to each of us: to look around, to open our own doors a little wider, and to believe in the transformative power of simple gestures. My hope is that when people leave Paper Mill Playhouse, they carry a more open heart and a renewed awareness that we can all make a difference.”
Hinds’ points are well taken. After attending a performance of Come from Away, I assessed my recent volunteer work and decided to increase my ESL teaching through Literacy Volunteers in Somerset County. When I speak to my students, I also encourage them to reach out to others in their community in positive ways.
Metro area audiences have until Sunday, March 1 to see Come from Away at Paper Mill Playhouse. The theater is located at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn, NJ. Tickets are on sale at The Official Site of Paper Mill Playhouse and by calling (973) 376-4343, or by visiting the Box Office.
Photo Credit: Jeremy Daniel
