Stephenville community stages musical tribute to 9/11 stranded passengers
A new musical titled When the World Stopped will be performed at the Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre on Sept. 11 and 12, recounting the town’s experience with stranded airline passengers after the attacks.
When the World Stopped, a musical-theatrical piece created by Nomad Stages, is set to debut at the Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre on Sept. 11 and 12, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The production interweaves short scenes and songs that portray how Stephenville residents cared for passengers from eight commercial and five private flights that were diverted to the town’s airport. Artistic director Louann Davis, who previously staged Come from Away, developed the piece to highlight Stephenville’s unique story.
Cast member Denise Ryan describes the moment she and her preschool class saw the aircraft land and the phones ring nonstop. Mayor Bob Byrnes notes the town’s longstanding ties to the United States, recalling a large military air show the year before. A Knights of Columbus service at St. Stephen’s Parish will also commemorate the day, bringing together first responders and veterans.
Why it matters
The performance preserves a local perspective on a national tragedy, fostering community memory and cultural reflection.
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