Grade 7 Students Experience A Memorable Journey to “Come From Away”
Rob Waldron
Yesterday, our Grade 7 students had the incredible opportunity to visit the iconic Royal Alexandra Theatre in Toronto to experience the matinee performance of the award-winning musical Come From Away. This unforgettable production provided a powerful connection to one of the students’ core texts, We All Fall Down by acclaimed Canadian author Eric Walters, offering a unique lens through which to deepen our students’ learning.
Come From Away tells the heartwarming and inspiring true story of Gander, Newfoundland—a small town that opened its arms to the world during one of history’s darkest days. When the tragic events of September 11, 2001, unfolded, 38 planes carrying thousands of passengers from across the globe were grounded in Gander, unable to continue their flights through U.S. airspace. Through limited actors, simple yet effective costumes, and minimal set design, the play brilliantly captured the extraordinary kindness, resilience, and generosity of the people of Gander as they rallied together to support stranded passengers in their time of need.
Our Grade 7 students were captivated by the show’s emotional storytelling, toe-tapping musical numbers, and its powerful message of humanity and hope. The performance left a lasting impression, enriching their understanding of 9/11’s far-reaching impact and emphasizing the strength of community in times of crisis.
This was more than just a field trip—it was an experience that brought history and compassion to life in a way our students won’t soon forget!
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.