GMG Productions is bringing the award-winning musical “Come From Away” to the Philippines, which tells the true story of 7,000 plane passengers who got stranded in Newfoundland in 2001.
GMG Productions—the name behind countless high-calibre international productions in the Asia Pacific region—and artist group Stages Productions have announced that they will be staging their own fresh take on the multi-award-winning hit musical, Come From Away. Showcasing a new artistic vision and the talents of a Filipino-led cast and creatives team, this production is a new milestone for GMG Productions, which is dedicated to celebrating and elevating the Philippine theatre industry.
“With Come From Away, GMG Productions is proud to embark on this exciting new chapter, working with a Filipino-led cast and crew for the first time,” shares Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “This production is a celebration of the incredible talent in the Philippines, and we cannot wait to share this powerful story with audiences.”
Come From Away will be staged at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater for a strictly limited season from June 6 to 29, 2025.
A Story Of Hope and Community
Come From Away features a book, music, and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, and has touched the hearts of audiences worldwide since first premiering on Broadway in 2017. Set on September 11, 2001, it tells the remarkable true story of 7,000 airline passengers whose planes were forced to land in Gander, Newfoundland when the U.S. Airspace closed due to the 9/11 attacks. Despite the fear and uncertainty that gripped the world at the time, the residents of Gander opened their homes, offering warmth, generosity, and hope to strangers from all walks of life.
The musical gained widespread acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling, powerful songs, and portrayal of the relentless human spirit during a time of crisis. Shortly after its premiere, it won the Tony Award for Best Direction and was nominated for Best Musical. It has also won multiple Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, Best Theatre Choreography, Best Sound Design, Outstanding Achievement in Music, and the Drama Desk Awards for Outstanding Musical and Outstanding Book of a Musical.
The Chicago Tribune called it “a show you should see right now, for the benefit of your own spirit,” while Time Out described it as “a totally, soul-feedingly wonderful musical.” The Daily Beast hailed the show as “a celebration of the best of humankind and an uplifting piece of art for our times.”
“This show offers more than just a night at the theatre; it’s an inspiring celebration of humanity and people coming together,” says Candal. “It’s a story that Manila audiences will not only relate to but will also find profoundly uplifting, especially in today’s unpredictable times.”
Filipino Talent At The Forefront
The musical brings together an all-star cast of Philippine theatre legends, whose collective achievements have left a mark on local and international stages.
The ensemble of 15 performers includes Cathy Azanza-Dy, Caisa Borromeo, Garrett Bolden, Mikkie Bradshaw-Volante, Becca Coates, Steven Cadd, Mayen Cadd, Rycharde Everley, Topper Fabregas, Sheila Francisco, Carla Guevara Laforteza, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo, Gian Magdangal, George Schulze, and Chino Veguillas.
“Come From Away is the perfect vehicle to showcase home-grown talent as the musical requires versatile actors to play different characters,” shares Audie Gemora, founder of Stages Productions. “Let me tell you, we have assembled the best of the best Philippine theater has to offer. The energy surrounding this production is through the roof! This is going to be epic.”
Michael Williams is set to direct Come From Away, with Rony Fortich as musical director. “This show is a testament to the power of community—how kindness, resilience, and human connection bring hope even in the darkest times. I’m thrilled to work with some of the most talented artists in Philippine theater to bring our passion and storytelling to this incredible production,” Williams expresses.
They are joined by Delphine Buencamino (Choreography), Harry Tabner (Lighting Designer), Luke Swaffield (Sound Designer), Kayla Teodoro (Production Designer), Myrene Santos (Hair and Makeup Designer), Hershee Tatiado (Costume Designer), and Joel Goldes, the dialect coach from Come From Away’s original Broadway production. Together, this world-class creative team blends Filipino and West End talents, staying true to the show’s spirit while highlighting local artistry.
Tickets for Come From Away will be officially available on February 22, 2025 through TicketWorld. Theatre fans can also enjoy early access through UnionBank of the Philippines, GMG Productions’ official 2025 season bank sponsor and pre-sale partner, or join the GMG Come From Away waitlist at www.gmg-productions.com. The pre-sale period runs from February 18 to 21, 2025.
Stay updated on upcoming productions by visiting www.gmg-productions.com or following @gmg.productions on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube.
Photos courtesy of GMG Productions.
