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9/11 Musical: Kindness Still Resonates Today
20 Jul
Summary
- Musical's message of kindness and compassion remains relevant.
- Real-life events of 9/11 grounding inspired the musical.
- Newfoundland community's welcoming spirit was central.
The musical "Come From Away" continues to touch audiences with its timeless message of kindness, even a decade after its debut. Kevin Tuerff, whose experience as a passenger stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, after the 9/11 attacks inspired a character in the musical, noted the profound impact of the community's compassion. He expressed disappointment with current global treatment of immigrants, contrasting it with the welcoming spirit shown in Canada on 9/11.
Diane Davis, a Gander teacher who inspired another character, echoed Tuerff's sentiments, highlighting the production's enduring relevance. She described the show as a communal experience that softens hearts and inspires greater community engagement. Davis also spoke of representing Canada abroad, sharing stories of kindness exemplified by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, and the town's subsequent efforts to help Syrian refugee families.
Both Tuerff and Davis emphasize that the spirit of helpfulness shown in Gander on 9/11 was not a singular event but a continuation of a broader community ethos. Tuerff observed Gander's commitment to aiding Syrian refugees, further solidifying his view of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Canada as a whole, as beacons of compassion and mutual support.
