WICA to stage musical ‘Come From Away’ on Whidbey Island

The musical ‘Come From Away’ is set to open at WICA in Langley, running from October 9 to 25. The production is based on the true events in Gander, Newfoundland, following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when 38 commercial aircraft carrying approximately 6,700 passengers were diverted to the small town.

During the crisis, the local population of Gander nearly doubled as residents, schools, and local organizations mobilized to provide food and shelter for the stranded passengers. WICA is noted as one of the first non-union, non-educational theaters selected to stage the production. Executive Director Deana Duncan noted that securing the production rights required multiple applications, emphasizing the connection between the island community of Whidbey and the community of Gander.