Art imitates life: 9/11 airline stranding inspires Broadway hit, ‘Come From Away’

The real-life inspiration behind the character “Kevin T.” in the Broadway hit “Come From Away” is heading to Wailuku’s historic ʻĪao Theater for a special appearance at Maui OnStage’s local production of the musical.

Kevin Tuerff, whose experience as a stranded passenger in Gander, Newfoundland, on Sept. 11, 2001, is the central story in the Tony award-winning show, will attend the July 12 performance at the theater.

Following the 3 p.m. show, Tuerff will host a “Talk Story” session with the audience, offering firsthand insights into the true events that inspired the musical. He will also sign copies of his memoir, “Channel of Peace: Stranded in Gander on 9/11.” All ticket holders for the July 12 performance are invited to stay for the special event.

Maui OnStage’s presentation of “Come From Away” is a milestone, marking the first time the musical has been produced by a community theater in the United States outside of New York. The show tells the true story of how 38 planes were ordered to land in the small town of Gander, nearly doubling its population overnight. It celebrates the profound kindness and generosity shown by the people of Gander to the thousands of stranded travelers, or “come from aways.”

Directed by Kalani Whitford with music direction by Vania Jerome, the Maui production features a cast of local performers. The musical, with book, music, and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, is known for its powerful message of hope and humanity in the face of crisis.

As part of its stage preparations, Maui OnStage is asking the community for help. The production team is seeking donations of gently used suitcases to create an immersive set design that recreates the world of the Gander airport. “Pack your bags and be part of the show — your suitcase could help bring this extraordinary story to life,” the production team announced.

Performance details:

• Maui OnStage presents “Come From Away”
• Weekends from July 4 – 27, 2025. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
• Where: Historic ʻĪao Theater, 68 N. Market St., Wailuku
• Special Event: A Talk Story and book signing with Kevin Tuerff will follow the 3 p.m. show on Saturday, July 12.
• Tickets: Available now at MauiOnStage.com.