Photos provided by Matthew Murphy

When the horrors of 9/11 were unfolding right before the entire nation’s eyes, Operation Yellow Ribbon was immediately implemented to divert American flights in the potential line of fire to Canada. Given the looming uncertainty of ongoing terrorist threats, travelers from all walks of life were paired with complete strangers and community centers in Gander, Newfoundland who hosted them as overnight guests until it was deemed safe enough for their trips to proceed.

And even though the actual event it chronicles is so far back in the rearview mirror, messages of acceptance, understanding and working together couldn’t be more timely today as they strive to inspire well beyond the theater doors.

Though it’s been an infrequently told tale throughout the almost two decades since it transpired, the recent Tony Award-winning musical “Come From Away” finally shines the spotlight on these ordinary folks who united in a moment of extraordinary crisis, regardless of their differences. All in one cleverly-sculpted swoop from the pens of Tony nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, along with the direction of Tony-winning director Christopher Ashley, the show seeks to shatter stereotypes and prejudices, ultimately outlining unity in diversity.

There are constant examples of humanity at its finest (and temporarily at its worst), but what’s especially remarkable is it’s all true right down to the actual names of many passengers and caretakers. In fact, it’s hard not to get choked up as friendships are formed in spite of perceived cultural clashes and when folks learn the fate of loved ones who either found their lives being spared or weren’t so fortunate on the other side of the border.

Musically, “Come From Away” connects with a soundtrack of Celtic-leaning contemporary pop, though perhaps the greatest point of appeal is the exceptionally adaptable cast’s ability to switch between several characters within seconds. And even though the actual event it chronicles is so far back in the rearview mirror, messages of acceptance, understanding and working together couldn’t be more timely today as they strive to inspire well beyond the theater doors.

“Come From Away” continues at the Cadillac Palace Theatre through Aug. 18. For additional details, visit ComeFromAway.com and BroadwayInChicago.com.

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