Community and chorus take center stage when the Blinn-Bryan Theatre Troupe opens its 2026-27 season with the musical 'Come From Away'
The Tony Award-nominated musical will be staged at the Blinn-Bryan Student Center Nov. 12-14 and Nov. 20-22
October 29, 2026
Compassion and community are celebrated when the Blinn-Bryan Theatre Troupe (BBTT) opens its 2026-27 season with the touching musical “Come From Away.”
Set in the days following the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, the Tony Award-nominated musical tells the true story of the residents of Gander, Newfoundland, Canada, who welcomed approximately 7,000 stranded airline passengers after U.S. airspace was closed.
“I fell in love with ‘Come From Away’ when I saw it on Broadway, and I knew I wanted to bring it to Blinn,” said Dr. Evleen Nasir, who is directing the production. “The musical is about what happens when a community faces a disaster and how people can come together in extraordinary ways. On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, I hope audiences leave reminded of the power of togetherness and what we can accomplish when we support one another.”
In the wake of disaster, humor ensues with cultural mix-ups and unexpected friendships as the locals in Gander open their hearts and homes to the world. Featuring a dynamic ensemble of 12 actors who each portray a primary character along with a variety of other townspeople, airline crew members, and passengers, “Come From Away” is a fast-paced, heartwarming musical that celebrates the surprising connections that can bring people together.
Blinn student Abby Jo York plays Gander local Bonnie Harris.
“I think Bonnie’s best quality is integrity. She is determined to do the right thing, even when it means facing disapproval from others,” York said. “She’s persistent, and quite sassy. I admire that determination because it’s something I identify with as well.”
In addition to the quirks of her main character, York believes audience members will connect with the musical’s universal and timeless message.
“What makes this story so meaningful is the selflessness, acceptance, and kindness shown by the people of Gander who opened their homes and hearts to strangers in a time of need. The show is a powerful reminder of what empathy and compassion can look like, and audiences will laugh, cry, and probably need a hug by the end,” York said.
The remaining cast members include Rodney Bettis as Nick, Liam Dunleavy as Bob, Jonas Flood as Kevin T., Gigi Greene as Beulah, Adam Harris as Oz, Cora Hecker as Beverly, Kevin Kimble as Kevin J., Elaine Pryor as Janice, M.A. Sterling as Claude, Emma West as Hannah, and Essence Wylie as Diane.
Production team members are Addyson Bland, assistant stage manager; Cynthia Bradford, musical director; Matthew Burhus, photographer archivist; Dayton Holcomb, production assistant; Rei Hughes Alexander, assistant director and stage manager; Zoey Kelly, scenic painter; Jazmine Kittle, light board operator; Jam Martinez, lighting designer; Maleah Miller, scenic change artist; Carrie Mitchell, choreographer; Tony Newman II, house manager/box office; Emily Rakov, properties designer; Landon Taarea, sound design and operator; Kaylin Turner, assistant stage manager and costume designer; and Greg Wise, producer.
“This production is unique because our cast brings together Blinn students and community members from different theaters, which makes the show’s message especially meaningful because we’re building that sense of community right here,” stage manager Hughes Alexander said. “The music is upbeat and fun, and seeing the actors portray multiple character is something you don’t often see in other shows.”
Performances will take place at the Blinn-Bryan Student Center (Building F) Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 12-14, at 7 p.m., Friday through Saturday, Nov. 20-21, at 7 p.m., and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. Tickets are available at www.blinn.edu/boxoffice.
“Come From Away” is suitable for ages 10 and up due to mature themes related to 9/11, grief, and some profanity.
Following the opening-night performance on Thursday, Nov. 12, audience members are invited to participate in an interactive “Talk-Back” question and answer event with the cast and crew.
In April, the BBTT will wrap up its season with Thorton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning classic “Our Town.”
To learn more about the BBTT’s 2026-27 season, contact Nasir at evleen.nasir@blinn.edu or Wise at greg.wise@blinn.edu.
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