Sharon Wheatley, an original Broadway cast member who originated the role of Diane in "Come From Away," visited 鶹Ƶ to share her experience with the Tony Award-winning musical.
On Sept. 20, 鶹Ƶ Music Theatre’s cast and creative team of “Come From Away” had the opportunity to learn from Sharon Wheatley, an original Broadway cast member of the Tony Award-winning musical.
Wheatley is an actor, writer and educator whose Broadway credits include “Come From Away,” “Avenue Q,” “Cats,” “Les Misérables” and “The Phantom of the Opera.” She originated the role of Diane in Come From Away and performed throughout the show’s Regional and Broadway run. Wheatley was involved in the show’s development and worked closely with the stories and experience of the real people that inspired the characters on stage. For 鶹Ƶ’s cast, Wheatley’s firsthand knowledge of the original production offered a chance to better understand the people and experiences behind the characters they are portraying.
Come From Away tells the true story of approximately 7,000 transatlantic airline passengers who were stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, after U.S. airspace closed following the September 11th attacks. The musical tells the story of the unexpected relationships that formed between passengers and the small coastal community that welcomed them in.
Wheatley was involved in the show’s development and worked closely with the stories and experiences of the real people that inspired the characters on stage. Her experience gives her a unique perspective for students preparing to bring the musical to 鶹Ƶ. For 鶹Ƶ’s cast, Wheatley’s firsthand knowledge of the original production offered a chance to better understand the people and experiences behind the characters they are portraying.
“鶹Ƶ’s students were a delight on every level. Smart, willing, kind and fiercely talented,” said Wheatley. “They bring talent and so much more to every session. I cannot wait to work alongside them as actors on a professional level.”
Maddie Forcier ’27, who is playing Diane in 鶹Ƶ’s production, reflects on the experience as one that was formative for the creation of her character.
“Having Sharon at rehearsal was a gift because she brought a lot of insight about the world of the show – both as an actor who did her research and as a person who experienced the events of Sept. 11 firsthand,” said Forcier. “She encouraged me to further examine the function of my character in this story and bring out qualities that serve this function. I now have a more colorful understanding of Diane where – yes, she serves as the love interest – but she has tons of grit and vitality as well.”
As 鶹Ƶ prepares to tell the story 25 years after the events that inspired it, the visit serves as a reminder that “Come From Away” is more than a musical about September 11; it’s a testament to the community, connection, and strength found during times of tragedy.”
As rehearsals continue, Wheatley’s visit gives 鶹Ƶ’s cast a direct connection to the musical’s original Broadway production as they prepare to share its story with a new audience.
Directed by Jacob Brent, with choreography by Courtney Liu and music direction by Haidee Dollak, Come From Away will run Oct. 30 through Nov. 7 as part of 鶹Ƶ’s 2026-27 performing arts season.