By Marikita Saure
Come From Away, Lincoln Community Playhouse, Saturday August 9, 2025
Come From Away has landed in Nebraska for the first time, and Lincoln Community Playhouse is among the first community theatres in the nation entrusted with bringing this extraordinary story to life. Under the inspired direction and choreography of Ted Blessing, this production isn’t just a show—it’s an experience that will have you on your feet, your heart full, and your spirit soaring by the final note. This show is unique in that it does not include an intermission—so be sure to make your trip to the concession stand and the restroom before the show begins, so you don’t miss a beat.
From the very first moment, you are drawn into the heartbeat of Gander, Newfoundland—a small town that, in the wake of 9/11, unexpectedly welcomed 7,000 stranded travelers when their planes were diverted. What unfolds is a story of strangers becoming family, of generosity in the face of fear, and of the kind of humanity the world aches to see more of. Each cast member seamlessly transforms between multiple roles, carrying the true story: real-life voices and memories of those who lived through it.
While Broadway audiences may remember the iconic revolve stage utilized in the original show, this production offers something uniquely intimate. Set Designer Jeff Maldavs has crafted a striking arrangement of multileveled platforms, crowned by the live band perched in plain sight across the top tier. This choice places the musicians at the heart of the storytelling—you see the joy radiate from every fiddle bow, every guitar strum, every shared glance. Lighting Designer Cassi Crain adds layers of warmth and atmosphere with perfectly timed illumination that feels like its own character in the story. Costume Designer Maralee Maldavs and Props Designer Julie Enersen (who also shines onstage) have built a visual world that breathes with earthy and complimentary tones, seamlessly blending with the set’s textures. And thanks to Sound Designer Fernando Domínguez, every note and every line, arrives with crystal clarity.
Musically, this show is a revelation. Music Director Kaleb Wilkening—who also steps into multiple roles and performs alongside the onstage band—guides the ensemble with artistry and heart. The music, steeped in Newfoundland folk rhythms, pulses with life. Every harmony is rich, every crescendo perfectly placed, and every lyric lands with emotional truth. It’s not the typical Broadway sound—it’s something rawer, more grounded, and utterly captivating.
But the true magic of this Come From Away lies in the people onstage. It is apparent that Blessing truly put every ounce of heart into this production, and helped to foster such powerful relationships within the cast and crew. The cast includes some of the greats in local talent, including Julie Enersen, Lauren Durban, Collette Williams, Bailey West, Chelsea Boyd, Shauna Shaefer, Kylie Meter, Matthew Works, Michael Trutna, Bronson Gierhan, Matt Osmotherly, Max Antoine, Stuart Richey, and Sirr Allen Murry. Under Blessing’s direction, the ensemble as a whole is a well-oiled machine, perfectly in sync and tuned into one another. The cast almost never leaves the stage throughout the full 90 minute production, making seamless costume and set/prop adjustments, but their energy never falters. Every performer delivers a standout performance, making it impossible to single out just one star.
There’s a palpable bond among this cast—a trust and joy that ripple out into the audience. They carry these stories with deep respect and connection, shifting you from laughter to tears in a heartbeat. You feel the sting of fear, the relief of kindness, and the enduring hope that comes when people choose compassion over chaos. You see the shortcomings of humanity be overcome by love and ever-enduring kindness that lies within each of us.
So—should you see Come From Away? Absolutely. The Theatre community in our area constantly raises the bar, and this production only proves that point and the importance of supporting and appreciating the arts. Drop everything. Buy the tickets. Sit in the theatre and let yourself be reminded that, even in the darkest moments, humanity can rise to its most beautiful heights.
If you go (and you should!)
Lincoln Community Playhouse
2500 S 56th Street
Lincoln, NE 68506
Remaining show dates: August 15-17, 22-24
Tickets can be purchased online at lincolnplayhouse.com, by calling the box office at (402)489-7529, or in person at the box office—but I highly recommend that you purchase your tickets early to ensure you get a seat!
Marikita Saure is a passionate supporter and participant of the performing arts, appearing as an actress, artist, and director for shows in Lincoln and the surrounding areas. She is a big animal lover and has two dogs (Saint Bernard and Terrier mix) whom she loves dearly.
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