In Gander, Newfoundland, the musical "Come From Away" continues to resonate as it marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The production tells the story of the community’s response when nearly 7,000 airline passengers were diverted to the town's airport amid the ensuing chaos, highlighting the town’s remarkable hospitality and kindness.

Since its Broadway debut in 2017 and through an interrupted run ending in 2022, "Come From Away" has earned widespread acclaim for its uplifting portrayal of solidarity during crisis. This year, the musical is being performed in 146 productions worldwide to commemorate the anniversary, including the notable homecoming in Gander, where the events unfolded.

For four consecutive summers, the show has played in a 392-seat theater near Gander International Airport, close to where 38 commercial flights were grounded on that day. During the anniversary period, the run has been extended through Sunday to coincide with various memorial observances. Oz Fudge, a former town police officer and one of the real-life figures portrayed in the musical, has attended the show 110 times. He emphasized the musical’s message of compassion as especially relevant amid current global tensions and prevailing social divisions.

While the anniversary productions take place against the backdrop of a strained U.S.-Canada relationship and ongoing trade disputes, locals distinguish between governmental policies and individual citizens. Claude Elliott, retired mayor of Gander and a central figure in the narrative, noted that residents remain friendly toward Americans despite frustrations with political developments. Elliott, who has seen the show 139 times, stressed that the community’s goodwill toward U.S. citizens persists unchanged.

The musical has become an integral component of Gander’s identity and economy. Directional signs at the airport point visitors to “Come From Away” landmarks, local businesses sell merchandise such as themed chocolates and ornaments, and even a beer named "38 Planes" is marketed locally. Mayor Percy Farwell acknowledged the tragedy that sparked these events but highlighted how the musical has positively impacted tourism and local commerce, branding Gander as a symbol of generosity and compassion.

The ongoing production is led by Jillian Keiley, a Newfoundland native, and features a diverse cast of both local residents and performers from across Canada and the United States. Operating as a nonprofit, the show performs five times weekly, having attracted approximately 66,000 attendees over four years. This year’s staging cost around $1.4 million, with financial support coming from philanthropic sources and government funding, including provisions for housing cast and crew.

As the community continues to welcome audiences, the musical stands as a testament to Gander’s extraordinary response on one of the darkest days in recent history, offering a message of hope and human kindness that endures across generations.