The Enduring Power of Kindness: Why 'Come From Away' Still Matters
There’s something profoundly moving about a story that refuses to age, no matter how much the world changes. Come From Away, the musical that first graced stages a decade ago, is one such story. But what makes it particularly fascinating is how it continues to resonate, not just as a historical account of 9/11, but as a timeless reminder of humanity’s capacity for kindness. Personally, I think this is why it’s stood the test of time—it’s not just a musical; it’s a mirror reflecting our best selves.
A Story of Humanity in Chaos
At its core, Come From Away is a simple tale of strangers coming together in the wake of tragedy. Inspired by the true events in Gander, Newfoundland, where 7,000 stranded passengers found refuge after 9/11, the musical captures the essence of compassion in a moment of global crisis. What many people don’t realize is that this story isn’t just about 9/11—it’s about the universal human response to adversity.
Kevin Tuerff, whose experience inspired the character Kevin T, has seen the show over 120 times. That’s not just dedication; it’s a testament to the story’s enduring impact. When he says, ‘It’s a simple story of acts of kindness in a terrible situation,’ he’s highlighting something profound: kindness is often the most radical response to chaos. In a world that feels increasingly divided, this message is more relevant than ever.
A Beacon in Dark Times
What this really suggests is that Come From Away isn’t just a historical artifact—it’s a call to action. Tuerff’s frustration with America’s treatment of immigrants today is palpable, and he sees the musical as a counterpoint to that narrative. ‘This musical has the ability to change hearts and minds,’ he says. And he’s right. If you take a step back and think about it, the story challenges us to reconsider how we treat strangers, especially in an era of rising xenophobia.
Diane Davis, whose character Beulah Davis is inspired by her role as a teacher in Gander, echoes this sentiment. She describes watching the show as a ‘communal experience’ that softens audiences. But what’s truly remarkable is her observation that the story still feels necessary a decade later. ‘Here is a story that we need now,’ she says. This raises a deeper question: why do we keep needing this story? Perhaps it’s because kindness is a muscle we’re constantly at risk of forgetting how to use.
Beyond 9/11: A Culture of Compassion
One thing that immediately stands out is how Come From Away transcends its historical context. When Tuerff visited Gander years later, he discovered that the town’s compassion wasn’t a one-time event. They had welcomed Syrian refugee families, proving that their kindness wasn’t just a reaction to 9/11 but a way of life. This detail that I find especially interesting is how the musical inadvertently highlights the broader culture of Newfoundland and, by extension, Canada.
From my perspective, this is where the story becomes truly global. It’s not just about Canadians helping Americans—it’s about humanity helping humanity. Tuerff’s assertion that Canadians are ‘a beacon of light’ is both a compliment and a challenge. It reminds us that kindness isn’t a passive act; it’s an active choice, a commitment to seeing the humanity in others, no matter their origin.
The Ripple Effect of Small Acts
What makes Come From Away so powerful is its focus on the small, often overlooked acts of kindness. It’s not about grand gestures but about everyday people doing what they can. Davis’s hope that audiences leave the theater inspired to contribute to their communities is a reminder that change starts locally. If you think about it, every revolution begins with someone deciding to care a little more.
This brings me to a broader point: the musical isn’t just about the past; it’s about the future. As we approach the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Davis’s reflection on feeling ‘useful and needed’ during the crisis is a poignant reminder of the importance of community. ‘Hopefully we don’t ever have to do it again, but we would,’ she says. That’s the kind of resilience and solidarity we need more of.
Why This Story Still Matters
In my opinion, Come From Away endures because it’s not just a story—it’s a challenge. It asks us to look at our own lives and communities and consider how we can be better. It’s a reminder that kindness isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. And in a world that often feels overwhelmed by division, it’s a beacon of hope.
Personally, I think the musical’s greatest achievement is its ability to make us feel both small and powerful at the same time. Small, because it shows us how much we rely on one another, and powerful, because it reminds us that even in the darkest times, we have the capacity to light the way for others.
So, the next time you hear about Come From Away, don’t just think of it as a musical. Think of it as a call to action, a reminder that kindness is not just possible—it’s essential. And maybe, just maybe, it’ll inspire you to be someone’s beacon of light.
