“Come From Away” Manila Opens Its Heart Wider: First-Ever FSL Interpreted Performance Set for June 27

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What happens when a story about unexpected kindness extends that kindness even further?

On Friday, June 27, 2025, the critically acclaimed musical Come From Away will host a special Filipino Sign Language (FSL)-interpreted performance at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater, making this already deeply human story even more accessible—for the first time—to the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community in the Philippines.

This isn’t just an inclusive gesture. It’s a landmark moment for accessible live theater in the Philippines.

What’s Come From Away About, and Why Does It Matter?

In case you’ve somehow missed it: Come From Away is the real-life story of how, in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, the small town of Gander, Newfoundland opened its doors to nearly 7,000 stranded airline passengers. What followed was a breathtaking portrait of human empathy and collective hope.

The musical—praised globally for its heart, music, and community—continues to earn standing ovations in Manila, directed by Michael Williams with musical direction by Rony Fortich.

And now, for one special night, Deaf audience members will experience it through live Filipino Sign Language interpretation, fully embedded into the fabric of the show.

Making Theater More Accessible: FSL Interpretation Comes to the Stage

Thanks to a collaboration between GMG Productions, De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde’s SDEAS (School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies), the Center for Education Advancement of the Deaf (CEAD), and the Interpreting Education Program, this performance will include live, on-stage FSL interpretation.

What does that mean?

🎭 Real-time storytelling in FSL
🎵 Musicality and emotion expressed visually
💬 Interpretation that reflects not just words, but intent and character

According to Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions:

“We believe that theatre should be for everyone. This FSL-interpreted show is one of many steps we’re taking to build a more inclusive audience and ensure that people of all abilities can experience the magic of live performance.”

How Deaf Audiences Can Access the Show

To ensure a quality viewing experience, a reserved orchestra section with unobstructed sightlines to the interpreters has been set aside for Deaf patrons and their companions.

🎟️ Use promo code ACCESSSEATS at TicketWorld to unlock a 20% discount
🎟️ Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing guests with valid PWD IDs may also claim the standard PWD discount at physical TicketWorld outlets

For more on accessibility accommodations, visit the Samsung Performing Arts Theater’s website.

Why This Matters for Philippine Performing Arts

This performance isn’t just a feel-good initiative—it’s a signal flare.

The Philippines has long needed better inclusion for Deaf audiences in the arts, especially in major musical productions. By offering a sign language-interpreted musical in FSL, Come From Away Manila becomes a benchmark for what truly inclusive theater in Southeast Asia can look like.

It’s not just about ticket access. It’s about cultural equity.

It’s about letting the Deaf community not only watch a story about welcome, but feel welcomed into it.

Catch Come From Away Before It Closes!

📍 Venue: Samsung Performing Arts Theater, Circuit Makati
📅 FSL Interpreted Show: Friday, June 27, 2025
🗓️ Show run ends: June 29, 2025
🎟️ Tickets: Available via TicketWorld starting at PHP 900
🔖 Use ACCESSSEATS for FSL seats & 20% discount

Follow @gmg.productions for updates and future accessible theater announcements.

Final Thought:

If Come From Away taught us anything, it’s that strangers can become family. On June 27, that invitation is signed, sealed, and opened wider than ever.

And the Rock? It’s for everyone. ✨

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