International Star to Direct Come From Away at The Empire in 2025

“At its heart, Come From Away is a beautiful story about connection.

“It captures the spirit of kindness and community that blossomed under the most challenging of circumstances and I know under David’s creative guidance, it will pull at the heartstrings of all who see it.”

Mr Wynen said he has adored Come From Away since his first viewing.

“I hope the powerful message conveyed in this show resonates with the audience long after they leave the theatre, sparking reflection and potentially influencing their perspectives,” he said.

Music Theatre Professor and Head of Dance at the State University of New York (Binghamton), Mr Wynen’s directorial credits include 42^nd St, Sweet Charity, Cabaret, Seussical and The Addams Family.

He choreographed Anything Goes, Guys and Dolls, The Wizard of Oz, Kiss Me Kate and Godspell and performed in Australasian tours of 42nd Street, Hocus Pocus and Showstoppers and the Australian cast of Billy Elliot. He also recently appeared in Billy Elliot in the USA, while also being the associate director. 

Mr Wynen said he looks forward to casting a talented ensemble to take on the challenging integration of singing, dancing and acting. 

“Mastering the intersection of acting and character movement poses an exciting challenge; additionally, the ability for actors to authentically execute multiple accents adds an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to the performance.” 

He is joined by renowned Gold Coast conductor and musician Owen Clarke who returns to Toowoomba as Come From Away’s Music Director.

A former Toowoomba and Dalby Eisteddfod adjudicator, Mr Clarke has conducted the Auckland Philharmonia, Orchestra Wellington and Gold Coast Philharmonic Orchestra, was Director of Music for the Royal New Zealand Navy and Air Force Bands and his musical credits include Legally Blonde and WICKED.

Ms Bonel said Come From Away was an opportunity to again unite the community through creative collaboration following the success of 2024’s Cinderella which welcomed 6,500 audience members and formed partnerships with 27 local businesses.

“In the lead-up to Cinderella, I was in awe of how the local community came together to support the arts, creating an incredible event on and off stage,” Ms Bonel said.

“As we prepare to deliver this inspirational production, we are eager to create more opportunities for businesses to come forward and support the arts in celebrating this powerful story."

Come From Away performs 14 – 23 March 2025 in the stunning Empire Theatre’s 1500-seat auditorium.

Empire Cardholders can enjoy exclusive early access to tickets from 9am Tuesday 15 October ahead of tickets going on sale to the public at 9am on Thursday 17 October.

The matinee performance of Come From Away on Sunday 16 March will be Auslan interpreted followed by a post-show Q&A session.

Cast applications for Come From Away are now open with auditions held in late November.

For more information about the show, partnership opportunities, audition applications or to book tickets, contact The Empire on 1300 655 299 or visit empiretheatre.com.au.