“Come From Away” Milwaukee Rep reviewed by Amy Menzel

***** I first saw Come From Away in 2019. I didn’t know anything about it at the time. I didn’t know it was a Tony Award-winning musical. I didn’t know it’s based on the true story of how a small Newfoundland town welcomed some 7,000 passengers whose flights were diverted after the attacks on 9/11. And I definitely didn’t know how the show would change the way I look at musical theater.

In 2019. I wrote, “Come From Away changed the way I look at musical theater.It showed me what musical theater is capable of. And, in doing so, it reminded me what people are capable of.” I stand by all of that. I’m still in awe – or, perhaps, again in awe of this show.

Of course, this is a different cast and a different theater. (A newly renovated theater! More on that below.) The Milwaukee Repertory maintains their stellar reputation by consistently producing fantastic, entertaining, and moving shows. The artists – directorial, performance, technical, and musical – are immensely talented and their collaborative efforts result in…well, I’d say magic if I didn’t think calling it magic might trivialize their hard work and dedication. When the result is a house full of folks captivated and more connected, though, I think that might just be the closest we get to real magic.

Familiar (and, likely, favorite) faces take The Rep stage in this production, along with some folks making their Milwaukee Rep debuts. The show requires some big lifts and this cast makes it look easy. Not only does each actor play multiple roles, but the driving pace of this high-energy, highly emotional show is demanding. While most numbers are performed by the entire company, Dayna J. Dantzler makes her Milwaukee Rep debut a memorable one with her solo, “I Am Here.”

Come From Away has been touted as a story that helps us see the best in humankind. It also seems to bring out the best in a theater company. The proof is in the pudding, as they say, but I would be lying if I didn’t admit that it’s heartening to read this line on cast member Karen Ziemba’s recent Instagram post about the production: “It’s a terrific ride with good folx” (@karenziemba). It certainly felt that way from my seat in the house, too.

Speaking of the house, the new Checota Powerhouse Theater is officially open! And it’s beautiful. I wasn’t the only one compelled to walk down towards the stage just to take it all in prior to curtain. Consider exploring this new, sleek theater space just one more reason to go see this show.

The preshow remarks from the Ellen & Joe Checota Executive Director, Chad Bauman, and The Rep’s Artistic Director (and director of Come From Away), Mark Clements, were full of gratitude. They both thanked sponsors as well as the 1,000+ craftspeople who worked tirelessly to bring the vision of the space to life.

I think their opening remarks gave me a new lens with which to consider Come From Away. I realized that the show is an incredible expression of gratitude for people who stepped up to help when others needed it most.

I was glad to be able to enjoy last night’s show with my husband, who hadn’t yet seen it. As we walked out, he said, “That was great. Thanks for taking me.”

We both give Come From Away at the Milwaukee Rep ★★★★★

Come From Away plays through December 14. The show runs 1 hour and 40 minutes with no intermission.