Abbey Theatre To Stage European Premiere Of Tony Award Winning Musical

Come From Away will premiere at the Abbey Theatre as part of its Winter Season which is sponsored by Avolon, the international aircraft leasing company. After the premiere in Dublin it will transfer to London’s West End next year for performances at the Phoenix Theatre from 30 January 2019.
This joyous new musical recounts the incredible true story of how the residents of Gander, Newfoundland welcomed the passengers of planes from around the world. At first cultures clashed, and nerves ran high, but as uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.

Canada’s Ambassador to Ireland, Mr Kevin Vickers, said: “There are strong cultural ties between Canada and Ireland and I am delighted that Come From Away will have its European Premiere at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin later this year.
"This remarkable true story encapsulates the generosity and compassion of the Canadian people in the wake of a global tragedy.
" I believe that Irish audiences will really identify with this story. I am particularly pleased that the premiere will happen at the national theatre, which will only deepen the special connection that Ireland and Canada share.”

Earning widespread critical and audience acclaim, the multi award-winning musical continues sold-out, record-breaking engagements on Broadway, and in Canada, with a 60-city North American Tour launching in October in Seattle, an Australian production confirmed for summer 2019, and a feature film adaptation in the works.

The UK and Ireland cast for Come From Away will be announced in due course. Come From Away features a book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein and is directed by Christopher Ashley, with musical staging by Kelly Devine, music supervision and arrangements by Ian Eisendrath, scenic design by Beowulf Boritt, costume design by Toni-Leslie James, lighting design by Howell Binkley, sound design by Gareth Owen, orchestrations by August Eriksmoen, and casting by Pippa Ailion CDG and Natalie Gallacher CDG.

Directors of the Abbey Theatre Neil Murray and Graham McLaren said: “We are thrilled to be bringing Come From Away to Ireland’s national theatre this winter. This uplifting, humane true story from a remote Newfoundland community has captured the hearts of audiences in the US and Canada.

"The islands of Ireland and Newfoundland have a long association and have been connected across an ocean by their people.

"It is appropriate that this European premiere happens here in Ireland. Our relationship with this production of Come From Away, which we have been working on for the past year, gives Irish audiences first view of this brilliant show and will also will bring the Abbey Theatre to London’s West End next year.

"With our production of Cyprus Avenue, currently, off Broadway, it also helps to further build our international reputation.”

Book, music and lyric writers, Irene Sankoff and David Hein, said: “The humour, the music, and the infectious generosity of spirit of the people of Newfoundland inspired us to write this musical.

"However along the journey we discovered that this isn’t just a Canadian story – it’s a universal story of how, when faced with global atrocities, the world comes together to respond with kindness and cooperation.

"We are particularly thrilled to be sharing this story with audiences in the UK and Ireland.”

Dómhnal Slattery, Chief Executive Officer, Avolon said: “9/11 cast a dark shadow over the aviation industry and instilled fear around the World. It was the kindness and compassion of a small remote town that restored trust and faith in humanity.

"Come From Away tells just one story of how a community went out of its way to think beyond borders and welcome people from diverse parts of the world, making them feel safe. Avolon is proud to support the Abbey Theatre as its Winter Season Partner and to help them bring this phenomenal, unique, Broadway Musical to the iconic Abbey Stage.”

Come From Away was originally co-produced in 2015 by La Jolla Playhouse and Seattle Repertory Theatre, and presented in 2016 by Ford’s Theatre in Washington DC and Mirvish Productions at the Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto, Canada.