The critically acclaimed musical Come From Away is set to run for an extended stay at the Civic Theatre in February 2023; the first time in 30 years that a Broadway smash hit has come to Newcastle.
Come From Away shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada in the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that sprang into action to welcome the 'come from aways' into their lives.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes experienced Come From Away at Melbourne's Comedy Theatre at the weekend and was thrilled to announce the Tony and Olivier award-winning musical would be making its way to Newcastle in February 2023.
"This is a spectacular Broadway theatre production and a major coup secured by City of Newcastle that is sure to enhance the cultural life of our city for Novocastrians and visitors this summer," Cr Nelmes said.
"Major events are a clear economic driver and Come From Away will be a significant drawcard for our city that will provide considerable benefits for Newcastle's visitor economy.
"Come From Away joins a stellar line-up of international acts featured on Newcastle's 2023 major events calendar, kicking off on January 10 with one of the biggest names in music, Elton John, offering a taste of what is to come for the region."
Civic Theatre Manager Leonie Wallace said by securing a Broadway production like Come From Away, the Civic Theatre is now in consideration for future international theatre productions of this calibre.
"We're delighted to welcome Come From Away to the historic Civic Theatre and look forward to seeing this spectacular production come to life on stage with our theatre's iconic proscenium arch, grand tiered seating and incredible atmosphere," Ms Wallace said.
"By securing this international Broadway production for Newcastle and Civic Theatre, we can demonstrate the demand for other musicals and live theatre productions on the national touring circuit."
Newtheatricals producer Rodney Rigby said he jumped at the chance to present Come From Away in Newcastle for the first time at the historic Civic Theatre.
"We're thrilled that we can bring this record-breaking Broadway musical about kindness and humanity to Newcastle," Mr Rigby said.
"Newcastle audiences will finally get to see a production that has captured the hearts of millions across Broadway, London's West End, North America, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney."
Come From Away is showing at Newcastle's Civic Theatre from 18 February until 5 March 2023.
The production runs for 100 minutes and is recommended for ages 10 and older.
