Come From Away = Altrincham Garrick

MUCH is made today about the death of ‘the community’ and how looking after one another has long gone out of fashion in this hi-tech world.

Which enables us to take comfort from Come From Away, a musical inspired by the remarkable true story of the residents of Gander in Newfoundland and the 7,000 air travellers left stranded there after the 9/11 terrorist attack.

The warm hearted people of Gander fed, clothed and had fun with their unexpected guests as a warm bond of friendship begins.

While the show has much hilarity courtesy of a cast who all serve up energetic and exhilirating performances, it also embraces serious issues like the need for tolerance between the races and religions.

The Garrick’s decision tto open its new season with this fabulous, feel good show couldn’t have been any more timely, with the opening night taking place just a day before the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 outrage.

Cynics may say Come From Away plays upon the audience’s emotions in places. But it is impossible not to get emotional about something as affecting, around the world, as 9/11 is.

The production is directed by Joe Meighan, with Mark Goggins as musical director which ensures an evening that is flawless and unforgettable.

It was also richly deserving of the standing ovation it got on opening night. The applause and cheering that engulfed the auditorium was deafening.

How could I possibly forget the choreography of Lauren Brown, which culminated in a rousing finale after the curtain call. Audience members must have felt there was a party on and they had been invited.

Life affirming theatre, this. If you only visit the Garrick one this season, make sure it’s to see this.

Until September 19. Tickets are available from 0161 928 1677 or www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk.

Star rating - *****

Photo by Martin Ogden.