Review: COME FROM AWAY at Pioneer Theatre Company Washes Over You

Pioneer Theatre Company’s new professional production of COME FROM AWAY washes over you with emotional warmth.

COME FROM AWAY (book, music, and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein) was nominated for seven Tony Awards in 2017.  It tells the true stories of the citizens of Gander, Newfoundland and the “plane people” who landed in their town when their planes were grounded on September 11, 2001.  The locals rallied together to provide food and shelter for their thousands of guests, with both sides finding connections and healing along the way. 

Galyana Castillo is devastating as Hannah, and Mary Fanning Driggs is her rock as Beulah.  Jessica Rush as Beverley and John Schiappa as Claude both bring gravitas to the performance.  Pamela Bob as Diane and Brian O’Brien as Nick are sweetly endearing.  And Nic Rouleau and Nathan Andrew Riley are pitch perfect as Kevin T. and Kevin J., respectively.

Other members of the Equity ensemble cast, which clicks like close family, include Angie Schworer (who originated Angie in THE PROM) as Bonnie, David Rowen as Bob, Lucy Anders as Janice, Lenny Daniel as Doug, and Matthew Stocke as Oz. University of Utah student impressively rounds out the group as Micky. 

The scenic design by Jo Winiarski is a mix of functional pieces (which are used for a variety of locations like airplane seats) and abstract elements (like an eye-catching circular island of trees) that demand attention, especially when illuminated by Jose Santiago’s flowing, warmly inviting lighting.

The costume design by Patrick Holt complements the lighting with pleasing color schemes while successfully differentiating the multiple characters played by the same actors.

Karen Azenberg’s direction and choreography pays tribute to the beloved original production without being afraid to try to new things. It will feel familiar to those who’ve seen the show, but it’s also a new experience that will make you happy you decided to return to Gander.

COME FROM AWAY plays through May 9, 2026. For tickets, call the box office at 801-581-6961 or visit www.pioneertheatre.org.

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