The Tony Awards on Sunday were transported to Newfoundland with a performance of the opening number “Welcome to the Rock” from Come From Away.
Based on the diversion of civilian airline flights in response to the Sept. 11 attacks, the new musical follows the 38 planes and 6,579 passengers who suddenly landed in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, as part of Operation Yellow Ribbon. The move nearly doubled the population of the town, whose residents housed and cared for the stranded passengers.
Directed by Christopher Ashley, the show includes a book, music and lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein. It earned seven Tony nominations.
Honoring the best of the Broadway season, the awards were handed out in a ceremony that aired live on CBS from New York City. Kevin Spacey made his debut as the annual event’s emcee.
