If you’re a fan of musical theatre, you’ve probably heard of Come From Away. After successful runs on Broadway and the West End, this heartwarming musical is now on tour across the UK and Ireland. We were fortunate enough to attend a special showcase event at The Lowry, offering us a sneak peek into this remarkable production before it officially opens for its holiday run in Manchester. Let me tell you—it was an experience we won’t soon forget!
A Showcase to Remember
The event was held in the stunning Compass Room at The Lowry, a glass-walled space that offers breathtaking views and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for such an exclusive gathering. From the moment we arrived, there was a palpable buzz of excitement. We were treated to an array of performances, including the show’s rousing opening number, “Welcome to the Rock,” which immediately set the tone for the event. The energy of the cast was infectious, drawing us into the captivating story they were telling.
One of the highlights of the showcase was a live performance of “Me and the Sky,” a powerful ballad performed by Sara Poyzer, who portrays Beverley Bass, a trailblazing female pilot. This song, was performed with such emotional depth and authenticity that it left the audience spellbound. Poyzer’s rendition was a testament to the musical’s commitment to capturing the true spirit of the individuals it portrays.
Behind the Scenes: Insights from the Cast and Crew of Come From Away
After the performance, we had the pleasure of listening to an interview with the show’s producer, John Brant, and members of the cast, including Sara Poyzer, Mark Dugdale, and Brie Smith. They shared fascinating insights into the origins of Come From Away and the process of bringing it to the UK. One of the most intriguing moments was when Brant revealed that the song “Me and the Sky”—a powerful ballad performed by Poyzer’s character—was based almost verbatim on an interview with the real Beverley Bass. This added layer of authenticity made the song even more impactful when performed live, capturing the essence of Bass’s pioneering spirit as one of the first female pilots for American Airlines.
Sara Poyzer shared her approach to playing such a significant real-life figure, emphasizing that rather than impersonating Bass, she aimed to embody her spirit. The commitment to portraying real people with depth and respect was evident, not just in Poyzer’s performance but across the entire cast.
The Real-Life Stories Behind the Show
Come From Away is based on the true events in Gander, Newfoundland, following the September 11 attacks, when 38 planes were forced to land unexpectedly, bringing 7,000 stranded passengers to a small town of just 9,000 residents. The showcase event allowed us to hear firsthand from the cast and crew about their experiences and the real stories that inspired the show. Mark Dugdale, who has been with the show for years, shared how meeting the actual people portrayed in Come From Away—both the locals of Gander and the stranded "come from aways"—has profoundly impacted his performance and deepened his connection to the story.
A Delicious Lunch and Thoughtful Gifts
As part of the event, we enjoyed a delicious lunch featuring hot dogs and wedges. The meal was a hit, with the wedges in particular receiving rave reviews. There was even an extra hot dog and wedges at our table, which, although initially left unclaimed, we all regretted not grabbing once the meal was over—they were that good!
We were also treated to some lovely gifts, including a commemorative notebook, a pin badge, and a small bottle of maple syrup—a charming nod to the show’s Canadian roots. These thoughtful tokens were a wonderful reminder of the day and the unique experience we had.
A Holiday Show with Heart
Having already seen the full production of Come From Away in Liverpool, I can confidently say that this is a show you don’t want to miss. It’s a heartwarming tale of community, kindness, and resilience—perfect for the Christmas season. The themes of togetherness and hope make it an ideal holiday experience, offering a different kind of festive warmth that stays with you long after the final curtain.
Lawrence and I are already planning to see it again at The Lowry, possibly for his birthday which is in December, since the show runs from December 3rd to January 5th. With its uplifting message and captivating music, it’s sure to be a holiday highlight.
Don’t Miss Out!
If you haven’t seen Come From Away yet, I highly recommend grabbing tickets while you can. It’s a different kind of Christmas show, but one that’s filled with warmth, heart, and a sense of togetherness that feels especially poignant during the holiday season.
Tickets are on sale now, and I’ve included a link below where you can purchase them, along with a link to the official Come From Away website for more information. Trust me, this is one show you don’t want to miss!
So whether you’re a die-hard theatre fan or just looking for something special to do this Christmas, Come From Away at The Lowry is an absolute must-see. We had an amazing time at the showcase, and I’m sure you’ll love the full production just as much as we did!
You can click on the button below to purchase tickets to The Lowry performances
Click the button below for Come From Away's official website.
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