Retired Pilot Celebrates Milestone with "Come From Away"

Retired American Airlines pilot Beverley Bass is set to attend a performance of "Come From Away" at Aurora's Paramount Theatre, marking her 180th viewing of the acclaimed musical. Bass, the first female captain of an American Airlines jet, inspired a character in the Tony Award-winning show, which depicts the heartwarming response of Gander, Newfoundland residents to the 9/11 tragedy. On that day, Gander welcomed approximately 7,000 stranded airline passengers after U.S. airspace was closed.

Describing the musical as a ?masterpiece,? Bass recalls her emotional connection to the show, particularly during the song ?Me and the Sky,? which reflects her journey as a pilot. After meeting the show's creators in 2011, she has remained closely tied to its narrative. Despite retiring from American Airlines in 2008 and later flying private jets, Bass continues to celebrate her passion for aviation and resilience in the face of adversity. Following the performance, she will join the cast onstage, further emphasizing her enduring connection to this powerful story.