Look for the Helpers
Written by Executive Director, Burgundy Hill
One question I frequently get asked is, “What is your favorite show?” Answering that question would be kind of like picking a favorite child. Nearly impossible. My go-to answer is usually whatever production we’re working on at the moment, because it’s where I’m pouring my heart and soul. But I would be lying if I said that there weren’t shows that transcend that answer. Shows that are on a short list that would be a dream to bring to life.
Usually, for a myriad of reasons, we can’t produce those dream shows. But occasionally the stars align, and we make it happen. This year, COME FROM AWAY falls into that category. Outside of my personal affinity, this has been one of our most requested titles for the past several years. We were lucky enough to be offered early access from the licensing house to include it in the 2026 season.
But why COME FROM AWAY? Unlike many musicals set in a fantastical realm or a distant past, COME FROM AWAY feels very real and present. Based on a true story, many of the characters are still alive and continue to champion it. (But more on that in a minute.) The show starts on September 11, 2001. Everyone has their own memories associated with that day. It is one of those rare moments in time, usually associated with a tragedy, that we all experienced the same thing together. I sometimes struggle to describe this show. When you hear 9/11, you don’t think musical. But while the show starts on that fateful day, it really isn’t about that.
There is a famous quote from Mr. Rogers about his mother telling him, in moments of fear, to look for the helpers. No matter how scary a moment is, there are always good people trying to help. COME FROM AWAY is not about the horrific event of the day, but rather the best of humanity in a moment where we need to look for the helpers. It is a story of a community that came together to help thousands of stranded airplane passengers during extreme fear and uncertainty.
In the show, all the characters are based on real people’s experiences. Show writers interviewed thousands and pulled bits of each of their stories into the work. As we prepare to produce it, we’ve been lucky enough to connect with the City of Gander in Newfoundland, Canada, the heart of the story. They very generously shared resources and pictures. We were even surprised when the real-life Oz shared good wishes when we announced our cast.
At its heart, COME FROM AWAY is a story about a community full of those helpers. Closer to home, we’ve had a unique opportunity to involve our community in the storytelling. As we’ve started putting this show together, we’ve invited several groups to be involved. As you come on show nights, you will see representatives from groups like the Quincy Fire Department, the Quincy Humane Society, the Salvation Army, and the Adams County Health Department helping usher and sharing the work they are doing in the lobby before and after performances. We invite you to talk, make a connection, and learn about all the good they are doing in our community. Several of those groups will also be participating in our Discovery Night on April 7.
Additionally, as we’ve prepared this show, we’ve spoken with those groups, as well as many other representatives, including those from the local Jewish and Islamic communities, to ensure we tell their stories as authentically as possible. At its heart, this story is about community and sharing many perspectives, and it was important to us to reflect our own community in how we tell it.
We also have a special opportunity for you to get involved before the show even opens. In Newfoundland, there is a tradition called a “Screech In.” We are holding our own Screech In on March 18 at the Ratskeller at 6 pm. You will get a preview of the show and have the opportunity to participate in the ritual to become an “official” Newfoundlander. Our goal is to celebrate our community with this cheeky event. We hope to see you there!
More than anything, if you’re unfamiliar with this title, I invite you to give it a chance. Our goal in telling this story is not only to produce a really good musical but also to foster broader connections by shining a light on several local groups and creating opportunities for connection. I hope you will come look for the helpers and leave reminded of how good people really are.