One of the reasons that La Mirada Theater remains an essential part of Southern California theater is their unique productions. Ask them to elaborate, and they’ll say that they produce every show from the ground up. This means that every detail is crafted with special care and, in the case of Come From Away, means giving it a new spin. Whereas the traditional Broadway version includes a turntable stage, this one borrows from an alternative version that favors dual layers with expendable sets that make the world feel more lived in. As a result, it enhances the familiar and makes an already larger-than-life tale feel more awe-inspiring.
Besides the staging, the story remains the same. On September 11, 2001, hundreds were stranded on a Canadian island called Gander. This true story has been endearing audiences for almost a decade now, and for good reason. The songs capture humanity at its best, where the warmth of the residents housing the wayward passengers clashes perfectly with colorful supporting roles of people trying to not become too homesick. It’s the warm hug of modern theater that is hard to not appreciate, especially as it mixes the drama with humor that keeps everything from spiraling into any woeful state.
What should be noted is that La Mirada’s production, while not the first, embraces a different approach to the story than originally intended. Every wall of the once barren stage is now packed with curiosities, often holding practical props that will factor into the plot as time progresses. Along with an expendable staircase, actors roam across the two levels while singing the familiar numbers. There are tables constantly being wheeled out. Phones hang from the side walls. When it comes time for a scene involving airport security, a series of unassuming screens are lit up as the stage lights dim, distorting the warm abode into a now clinical control tower. The central staircase also becomes an optical marvel as characters stand on its edge as if on the edge of a hill overlooking beautiful scenery. Instead, they are staring out at the crowd.
While it would be easy to break down every aspect of the show that differs, what matters is the larger tone. Despite lacking the intimacy of the smaller set-up, the larger room allows for the familiar rooms to now come to life with invention. For example, actors have replaced their “airplane chairs” with their portable suitcases, making the central numbers set aboard an impatient and delayed flight feel more connected to the audience. Actors are in constant motion more, pulling surprises from different unseen corners that allow audiences to receive a new vantage.
For those who love the feel-good text, this is a revelation of a production that relies on practicality. By having two levels, there’s also room to see more action and spread out the performers in a way that complements powerful visuals. The harmonies carry further, and certain gags have more of a lasting appeal. As far as expanding well-worn territory goes, few could do better than to recreate Come From Away like La Mirada’s recent production. In some ways, it comes to feel like home, a place that nobody would want to leave. It’s the type of setting that, much like the characters, will welcome you back anytime. Thankfully, it’s well worth the visit.
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