Come from Away, which concluded its run at Storyhouse this evening is the latest show from Tip Top Productions

Directed by the experienced Tip Top team of Simon Philips and Rhian Lyon, the musical tells the fact based story of the passengers of 38 planes grounded in Newfoundland following the terror attacks of September 11th. With a run time of 100 minutes with no interval, the fast paced musical begins with the toe tapping “Welcome to the Rock” as we are introduced to the locals of the distant Canadian island. With thrusting dance moves and powerful harmonies, the memorable opener sets the standard for the rest of the show.

As the chaos of 2001 unfolds, the islanders warmly take the 1000s of passengers into their community, feeding and housing them. Friendships form over 5 days and along the way love begins, and love ends, for some. Moments of quiet sadness contrast with joy, humour and togetherness. Not afraid to tackle darker themes, the prejudice experienced by an Egyptian Muslim, played by Tip Top regular Phil Cross was well illustrated, and given that the musical is set 25 years ago, made me wonder how far , or not so far, we have come.

Staged on a basic set, with an arrangement of chairs representing a plane for example, this minimalism is barely noticeable as the charismatic cast dominate every corner of the stage. Many of the cast of 12 rotate between various roles via a change of clothing, a hat or accent. All the cast were superb but particularly impressive were 2 performers making their Tip Top debuts : Kate Gordon as pilot Beverley shows off her powerful voice in solo number “Me and the Sky” , and Wesley Ray showed versatility playing Bob and other roles in the ensemble.

Far from Away tells a moving story about the power of the human spirit, performed to a professional standard by an extremely talented local cast. As the Irish influenced band came on stage for the finale for a standing ovation, I was hoping for an encore. The cast and crew are a credit to our region and to see them on stage at our theatre is as ever, a special feeling.

Five stars *****