Do you remember where you were and what you were doing on September 11, 2001? The people of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada will never forget the profound ripple effect of that horrifying day. While thousands of miles away, the tragedy in the United States deeply impacted their small, quiet town. The Broadway hit Come From Away, which premiered in 2017, beautifully tells the true story of how the residents of Gander welcomed thousands of stranded passengers, offering them comfort and aid in their time of desperate need.

This internationally acclaimed, Tony Award-winning musical, which has taken Broadway, the West End, and even TikTok audiences by storm, is the first in a lineup of award-winning theatrical experiences for the 2025 UnionBank x GMG Productions entertainment season. UnionBank has partnered with GMG Productions to bring these blockbusters to life, kicking off with Come From Away.

As the opening show of the season, Come From Away signals the start of exclusive entertainment perks for UnionBank Credit and Debit cardholders. Thanks to the UnionBank and GMG Productions collaboration, UnionBank cardholders can look forward to priority ticket presales, exclusive discounts, and curated live experiences throughout the year.

Time is running out to experience the heartwarming and powerful musical Come From Away! Showing at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati until June 29, here’s why you need to book your ticket ASAP.

A stellar Filipino-led cast

Beyond the head-bobbing music, perfectly placed comedy, and a seamlessly flowing story, the heart of Come From Away lies in its exceptional Filipino-led cast.

This production marks the triumphant return of theater veteran Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo to the stage after a six-year hiatus. You’ll be captivated by the amazing vocals of Topper Fabregas as Kevin and the inimitable performance of Sheila Francisco as the charming Beulah. Prepare to be deeply moved by the haunting vocals of Carla Guevara Laforteza as Hannah, a stranded passenger desperately trying to reach her firefighter son in the U.S. Gian Magdangal‘s jittery policeman, Oz, among his other characters, delivers much-needed comedic relief, while Caisa Borromeo‘s Bonnie, the SPCA worker, is a breath of fresh air and laughter in what could otherwise be a somber storyline.

Of course, we must also applaud Steven Cadd as the jolly Mayor Claude, whose unwavering compassion for the stranded passengers shines through despite the curveballs life throws at his town. And don’t miss Rycharde Everley‘s charming Nick and his delightful, slow-burn love story with Cathy Azanza-Dy‘s Diane.

Come From Away is based on a true story

Come From Away is a powerful musical that spotlights Gander, Newfoundland, in the immediate aftermath of the horrific events of September 11, 2001. With a population of just 11,254, the town earned its nickname as the “Crossroads of the World” due to its international airport, which was once a vital transatlantic fuel stop. It was this very airport where an astounding 38 planes were diverted when U.S. airspace was closed following the 9/11 attacks. Overnight, the residents of Gander had to accommodate over 7,000 unexpected passengers, nearly doubling their town’s population, in a remarkable display of human compassion.

It’s all about kindness and compassion

One might expect a sudden population surge to be seen as a nuisance by the residents of Gander, who were completely unprepared for the turn of events. But instead of leaving the stranded passengers to fend for themselves, Gander residents welcomed them with open arms.

While the world reeled from the 9/11 attacks, Gander’s residents didn’t have a moment to spare for contemplation. They immediately sprang into action, finding accommodations, cooking meals, cleaning facilities, stocking up on every necessity for 7,000 unexpected guests, and even caring for the animals aboard the diverted planes. Because it’s based on a true story, Come From Away beautifully shines a spotlight on the incredible kindness and compassion these Gander residents extended to those in desperate need.

The musical’s characters are drawn directly from the real-life Gander residents and the passengers they housed and fed. You’ll meet the wonderfully optimistic Mayor Claude, who not only ensured everyone felt welcome but also rallied nearby towns for assistance. There’s Beulah the teacher, with her warm smile and ever-ready helping hands. And Bonnie, the SPCA worker, whose unwavering determination led her to search every plane for animals, understanding that these “fur babies” were just as in need of help as the humans. These are just a few of the many remarkable Gander residents whose stories of generosity are told.

It highlights our diverse cultures

Come From Away also opens our eyes to the vast diversity of people in this world, each unique. Yet, despite their differences, when faced with fear and confusion, the stranded passengers instinctively turned to their faith and prayed.

The powerful song “Prayer” features the cast collectively singing prayers from various traditions, showcasing a sense of unity and communal spirit during a time of global crisis. It’s a message that resonates deeply even today: no matter who we are or what religion we practice, we can find common ground and come together, especially through shared moments of solace and hope.

It shows how the human spirit is resilient

Ultimately, Come From Away is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The 9/11 attacks were an act of horrific evil, but the overwhelming outpouring of kindness and compassion from Gander and around the world served as a powerful reminder: even in the face of darkness, light and humanity will always prevail. This musical is a moving celebration of how, when confronted with tragedy, we can choose to come together, demonstrating resilience and an unwavering capacity for good.

Catch Come From Away until June 29, 2025 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, and stay tuned for more musical blockbusters coming soon as part of the 2025 UnionBank x GMG Productions season.

For more details and tickets, visit GMG Productions’ official website, or check them out on Facebook and Instagram. For more exclusive cardholder deals and promos, visit the UnionBank website at www.unionbankph.com, or follow for updates on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, or Youtube.