Syracuse Stage promises its audiences everything from Tony Award- winning plays to musicals, and another original world premiere in its upcoming 2026 to 2027 season. The season begins with a trip back in time. “Come From Away” portrays how residents of Gander, Newfoundland, reacted when seven-thousand air travelers became stranded following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Artistic Director Bob Hupp says the production is both uplifting and inspiring.
“And how the community came together and welcomed these strangers and fed them and clothed them and took care of them," said Hupp. "That kind of uplifting story and the great music, that’s what inspired me to want to include ‘Come From Away’ in our season. I’ve been clamoring for the rights to it since it first opened and we snatched them up as soon as the opportunity came our way.”
Hupp says the play coincides with the 25th Anniversary of the Nine-Eleven tragedy. Another play with a historical connection is based on the Syracuse Nationals who won the 1954 to1955 NBA Championship here in Syracuse. Resident playwright Kyle Bass comes from a family of basketball athletes, though didn’t play himself. He says he drew from all kinds of personal inspiration to bring “The Black Nationals” to life.
“My father was superstar in high school, a regional superstar, and he went on to own a professional team in the ABA, the Utica Olympics back in 1976," said Bass. "And my sister is a basketball coach and I’ve been sort of relying on her as I continue to work on the play.”
The next season will conclude Bass’ residency at Syracuse Stage. Other plays in Stage’s season include several comedies, The Book Club Play and John Proctor is the Villain, as well as musical thriller Dust and Shadow involving Sherlock Holmes.
Syracuse Stage is a supporter of WAER.
