Oh Besties.... last night we joined the rock.... need we say more? I suppose we probably should this being a review and all... but if you’ve been fortunate enough to see Come from Away, the international smash musical with a book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, then there definitely is an ‘if you know, you know’ attitude because this show is pure magic.

Set on the morning of September 11, you are introduced to the townspeople of Gander in Newfoundland, going about their normal lives when, due to the horrendous terrorist attacks in the US, all air space is closed, and 38 planes (7000 people) must land in their little town. The locals selflessly spring to action to help make sure the passengers are fed, watered and looked after, and amidst the stress, fear and worry, we see stupendous acts of selflessness from the townspeople who welcome in the scared passengers as their own. Friendships are formed, love blossoms and bonobos are fed! We learn that, though the people of Gander may be from a small town, they have hearts bigger than a Boeing 747!

This is a sensational ensemble show, the epitome of one. Every single member of the cast and band absolutely shines throughout, weaving between characters with just a hat or jacket representing the character change but the storytelling is so strong, there's no doubt at any time which character they are portraying. Special mentions go to Sara Poyzer whose rendition of ‘Me and the Sky’ is an utter showstopper, and Jamal Zulfiqar who is hilarious as the sarcastic Kevin J one second, and then heart-wrenching as Ali the next.

Beowulf Borritt’s set is stripped back but astoundingly effective with the stage being all but empty except for wooden decking, trees and chairs. With this alone, we can fully suspend our disbelief and accept that we are in a plane, a bus, a bar or town hall, helped by Howell Binkley’s lighting design. It truly is wonderful and this, mixed with Christopher Ashley’s masterful directing, weaves a visceral theatrical experience that is delightfully intoxicating.

The most special thing about this show is its originality. Every musical number echoes through the great Hippodrome auditorium and makes the hairs stand up on your neck.

One of the highlights for us is near the end of the show when the band all come on stage and go NUTS! It is stupendous and a massive mention must go to Yue Miyagi on guitar who absolutely rocks out - you couldn't help but smile.

Come from Away encapsulates the goodness and kindness in people, and how simple acts of kindness can change people’s lives, even during times of despair. It makes you want to be a better person and ever so slightly restores your faith in humanity.

We always love a trip to Birmingham Hippodrome, but we think Come from Away may have been our favourite visit this year. A lot of things get called a must-see but this show is truly unmissable. It’s not just a show, it’s an experience, and one that you would be crazy to miss.

Effortless storytelling, bursting with heart.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: James Edge

Come From Away plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until 1 June before continuing its tour. To book tickets for select touring venues, please click here.