Sharon Wheatley, an original Broadway cast member who originated the role of Diane in "Come From Away," visited Elon to share her experience with the Tony Award-winning musical.
On Sept. 20, Elon University’s cast and creative team of “Come From Away” had the opportunity to learn from Sharon Wheatley, an original Broadway cast member of “Come From Away,” which will be Elon’s fall musical. Wheatley, who originated the role of Diane in 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.” Her connection to the “Come From Away” goes beyond performing.
Come From Away tells the true story of approximately 7,000 airline passengers who were stranded in Gander, Newfoundland, after U.S. airspace closed following the Sept. 11 attacks. The musical tells the story of the relationships that formed between the passengers and the local 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 Elon. For Elon’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.
“Elon University’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 Elon’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 Elon 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 is a story about community, connection and strength found during times of tragedy.”
As rehearsals continue, Wheatley’s visit gives Elon’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 Elon’s 2026-27 performing arts season.