The multi-award-winning musical, which took Broadway, West End and even the Tiktok crowd by storm. has found its way to the Philippines, and we’re here to tell you: it’s definitely worth the hype.

Once again, UnionBank has partnered with GMG Productions to bring another memorable musical. Their entry this time is something you should experience for yourself.

With music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, Come From Away, in its core, is an uplifting story about compassion amidst a desolate situation. Based on true events, it tells the story of a small town called Gander, Newfoundland when the United States closed its airspace during 9/11. 6,600 people from 38 different planes found themselves whisked away to the town that was to be their refuge for days.

Meanwhile, the locals, befuddled as they were, went the extra mile to welcome them – providing their basic essentials (food, accommodation, phone calls,etc.) as well as giving them the quintessential Newfoundland experience (booze, a stadium-sized barbeque party, the Screech In and just their pure hospitality). Amidst the growing anxiety and panic about what the world has come to, they all gradually find solace in one another, establishing genuine human connections.

Why should you watch the musical?

Philippine Concerts attended the Gala Night at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater on June 6, and we can tell you that Come From Away had become a global success for lots of good reasons.

In its 100-minute runtime – without any intermission – the musical was able to make the audience laugh, cry, and laugh then cry again. The story was simply heartwarming, and it was packed with enough humor, drama and tension to reel you in. 

This was made possible by the dynamic group of characters brought to life by the talented all-Filipino ensemble that painted a comprehensive picture of thousands of confused and agitated passengers. Due to the nature of the story, each actor had to play a multitude of roles, and they enabled each one at the snap of a finger. 

Directed by Michael Williams, Filipino talents took the helm of the production. Carla Guevara Laforteza stood out in her role as Hannah O’Rourke, a mother who was extremely worried for her firefighter son in New York. Herheartrending performance of “I Am Here” was easily one that captured the hearts of the audience.  Dubbed as the First Lady of Philippine Theater, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo’s solo for “Me and the Sky” greatly exemplified the pride and passion of her character Beverley Bass, the first female captain of American Airlines. 

There was also Sheila Francisco as the motherly Beulah Davis, a teacher in Gander who was always on her toes, attentive to each guest’s needs. Stephen Cadd, who played Claude Elliot, the mayor of Gander, was a steadfast source of laughs. George Schulz and Topper Fabregas were a joy to witness as the gay couple Kevin T. and Kevin J. Caisa Borromeo gently portrayed the eagerness of Bonnie Harris, the animal welfare specialist who gave the much needed care for the animals on-board the planes. Cathy Azanza-Dy and Rycharde Everley were Diane and Nick, two souls that found romance in the most unexpected place. Watch out for their rapid-fire retorts, the way they seamlessly made a 360-degree shift instantly, a fascinating feat to witness upfront. 

Come From Away is a refreshing take on musicals, as it placed the primary focus on the narrative and the music. From the get-go, “Welcome to the Rock” was a roaring invitation to Gander, propelled by the succession of fast-paced tracks like “38 Planes” and “Blanket and Beddings”. When the mood turned sombre, songs like “Lead Us Out of the Night”, “Prayer” and “Something Missing” were notable emotional clinchers. 

The stage was on the minimalist side, but the subtle changes made it easy to discern what was happening – the slight movements of the chair, the appearance of the arch, the turning of the signs on top. As the time went on, you’ll find yourself hanging on every word from the cast, feeling how their anxiety shifted to openness and eventually, grace. The script was full of wit and humor, not a dull moment for the crowd. 

Most importantly, Come From Away had its heart on the right place, with its inspiring message of human compassion – the mere act of extending help unconditionally in the face of tragedy, something that we can easily empathize with as Filipinos. It embodied what a community can do to lighten each other’s burdens, to find light in the darkest circumstances – commodities that the world needs more of at this time. 

Be sure to catch Come From Away until June 29, 2025 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater!

Words by Sandra Mae Laureano

Photo credit: Avzea Studios

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As UnionBank continues to build its presence in the entertainment and lifestyle space, the partnership with GMG Productions highlights its commitment to delivering unique and unparalleled moments to cardholders. Whether it’s early access to shows, special offers, or unforgettable cultural experiences, UnionBank is reimagining what it means to experience more with your card.

Catch “Come From Away” until June 29, 2025 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and stay tuned for more musical blockbusters coming soon as part of the 2025 UnionBank x GMG Productions season.

For more details, visit GMG Production’s official website, or check them out on Facebook and Instagram. For more exclusive cardholder deals and promos, visit the UnionBank website at www.unionbankph.com, or follow for updates on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or Youtube.