Come From Away

Broadway's 9/11 Story Lands at Orlando Shakespeare Theater

"Come From Away" arrives at Orlando Shakespeare Theater on Wednesday, August 26th at 7:30 PM, bringing one of Broadway's most moving true stories to the intimate Loch Haven Park venue. This Tony Award-winning musical recounts how the small town of Gander, Newfoundland sheltered 7,000 stranded passengers after September 11th, transforming a global tragedy into a testament of human kindness. The 7:30 curtain gives audiences time to settle into the theater's cozy atmosphere before experiencing a show that consistently earns standing ovations for its emotional honesty and unexpected humor.

What to Expect:
Orlando Shakespeare Theater's smaller scale creates an immediacy that serves this ensemble-driven show perfectly. The musical's brisk 100-minute runtime (no intermission) keeps the narrative momentum building, while the cast of twelve actors portrays dozens of characters from both the stranded "plane people" and their Newfoundland hosts. The show balances heartbreak with genuine laughs, never letting either overwhelm the other, making it accessible for audiences who might typically skip heavy subject matter.

Insider Tips:
- Book tickets early as Orlando Shakespeare Theater's limited seating means popular shows sell out weeks in advance
- The venue's general admission seating fills on a first-come basis, so arriving 20 minutes before curtain secures better sight lines
- The theater maintains strict late seating policies due to the show's continuous structure—latecomers wait until a designated break
- August in Orlando means aggressive air conditioning; bring a light sweater even though it's summer outside
- Street parking around Loch Haven Park becomes scarce after 7 PM, making the nearby garages worth the small fee
- The show's Canadian setting and folk-rock score create a different energy than typical Broadway fare—expect Celtic-influenced music and genuine warmth over spectacle

Getting There:
Orlando Shakespeare Theater anchors the cultural district of Loch Haven Park, just north of downtown Orlando off Mills Avenue. Alden Parking Garage sits 384 meters from the theater entrance and rarely fills completely on weeknights, offering the most convenient option. McRae Avenue Parking Garage and King Street Parking Garage provide backup options within a short walk. The SunRail AdventHealth station connects 455 meters away for those coming from downtown or Winter Park, with an easy walk through the park. Bus stops along Princeton Street serve the area, with the Orlando Loch Haven Park stop just 187 meters from the venue. Mills Avenue runs along the eastern edge of the park, while Princeton Street cuts through the cultural campus connecting the theater to the Orlando Science Center.

Local Scene:
Loch Haven Park's cultural corridor creates natural pre-show gathering spots within walking distance. Bites & Bubbles sits about 758 meters away for those wanting a proper meal before the performance. Token Ramen & Kung Fu Tea offers quick, satisfying options 952 meters from the theater—perfect timing for a 6 PM arrival before the 7:30 curtain. Dr. Drips Coffee Lounge provides a pre-show caffeine boost 961 meters away, though the show's energy rarely needs chemical assistance. Post-show options lean toward the nearby Mills 50 District, where the international food scene picks up after 9 PM. Kelly's Homemade Ice Cream at The Yard sits 978 meters away for those wanting something sweet to process the emotional journey they just experienced.