‘Come From Away’ on Apple TV+ is a 9/11 Musical That Celebrates Humanity

The phrase “9/11 musical” will no doubt elicit cringes from many, but give Come From Away a chance. The Canadian musical—which was filmed live in May 2021 and which is now streaming on Apple TV+—surprised audiences when it premiered on Broadway in 2017. Because, yes, it’s a 9/11 musical—but really, it’s a celebration of humanity.

The plot takes place in the weeks following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. But rather than telling the story from the perspective of the victims of the attacks—or the Bush administration, or New Yorkers who witnessed the attack—Come From Away zeroes in on the true story of 38 planes were ordered to land unexpectedly in a small town in Canada. The town—Gander, which is in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador—doubled in population thanks to the arrival of the newcomers. But proving stereotypes about how nice Canadians are to be correct, the townspeople immediately opened their doors to the stranded passengers, by donating food, supplies, and even their own homes.

The musical was a critical and box office success on Broadway, earning seven Tony nominations including Best Musical, and winning for Best Direction of a Musical for Christopher Ashley. It became the longest-running Canadian musical in Broadway history, but the run was cut short when Broadway closed its doors in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The performance streaming on Apple TV+ reunited original company members—including Jenn Colella, who earned a Tony nomination for Best Actress—and was performed live at Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre for an audience that included 9/11 survivors, front-line workers, and their family and friends.

This weekend marks the 20th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, which means there are a lot of reflections, documentaries, and analyses of that terrible day coming out. For some, the tidal wave of sadness, despair, and horror may be too much—it may even feel exploitative. But while Come From Away doesn’t sugarcoat the fear, confusion, and loss, it also offers a glimpse at the less horrific side of that day. It’s a celebration of humanity and all the complicated, messy emotions that come with it. You’ll feel inspired by the kindness of strangers, and motivated to be a better person yourself. And you’ll definitely want to be an Islander (which is what the residents of Gander call themselves).

If you’re interested in seeing the musical in person, Come From Away will return to Broadway on September 21, and is currently playing on London’s West End.

Watch Come From Away on Apple TV+