Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Nick and Diane Marson found an unexpected connection in the town of Gambo, Newfoundland. The couple, whose story served as a foundation for the musical Come From Away, met while seeking refuge during the mass flight diversions that occurred that day.
A chance encounter 40 kilometres from Gander
In the immediate aftermath of the September 11 attacks, Nick and Diane Marson found themselves in a shelter near Gambo, Newfoundland, waiting in line for blankets. The couple met while standing 40 kilometres away from Gander, a location that became the unlikely setting for their romance. When their flight was first diverted, the couple had never heard of Gander and had to consult maps to locate Newfoundland. According to a report from CTV News, Nick, who possesses a British accent, and Diane, an American woman, struck up a conversation about the smell of mothballs in the shelter. This small, mundane interaction occurred amidst the global chaos of the day's terrorist strikes.
From cod-kissing rituals to the "Screech" tradition
The Marsons' experience was defined by the overwhelming hospitality of the Newfoundland locals, whom Nick described as "angels." As the report notes, the residents provided beds,food, and entertainment to the thousands of travelers stranded by the sudden flight diversions. This kindness helped mitigate the intense "survivor's guilt" the couple felt regarding the tragedy in the United States. During their five-day stay, the couple also participated in the "Screech-in" tradition, which includes kissing a cod fish to become an honorary Newfoundlander. This ritual stems from Newfoundland fishers who used rum-filled barrels to transport fish, a practice that Diane explained influenced the local culture.
How a single kiss became a scene in Come From Away
The romantic spark between the two led to a moment that would eventually find its way into the award-winning musical Come From Away. As the report details, Diane's decision to kiss Nick on the mouth—which Nick called her "ace card"—inspired a specific scene where a flight attendant notices an older couple's affection ... This romantic connection survived the flight out of Newfoundland, continuing through phone calls and emails until Nick proposed over the phone. The couple eventually married on September 7, 2002, and celebrated their honeymoon in Gambo.
What remains of the Marsons' connection to the stage?
While the Marsons' story is a cornerstone of the Come From Away legacy, several details regarding their ongoing relationship with the production remain unverified. It is not explicitly stated how much direct input the couple provided during the actual writing of the musical's script, nor is it known if they maintain a formal partnership with the show's creators.. Additionally, while they have watched the musical more than 160 times, the report does not clarify if they have attended recent international tours or if their lives remain tied to the Newfoundland region.
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