In the musical Come From Away, the character of Ali is a master chef for an international restaurant chain.
That’s something the actor who plays him in BATS’ forthcoming production, Hiro Fam, aspires to!
“I’m a chef and run my own catering business, and I’d love to have my own restaurant one day,” says Hiro.
Ali is a passenger on an aeroplane that’s diverted to the remote town of Gander, Newfoundland, following the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Hiro acknowledges another connection between Ali and himself.
“Other passengers are suspicious of him because he’s Muslim,” says Hiro. “I’m originally from Malaysia, which is a Muslim country. So I understand how Ali felt on the plane.”
Come from Away goes on to show how the people of Gander embrace the newcomers, and the whole community rallies in the wake of the terrible circumstances that have brought them all together. Ali makes sure everyone is fed.
“It’s a really positive message of community spirit,” says Hiro. “It’s about welcoming people with an open heart and treating them with respect for who they are.”
“I was adopted by a Chinese family and grew up in a multi-cultural country, so I also know a lot about community spirit.”
After a couple of shows with Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society (BAOS), Come from Away is Hiro’s first time on stage with BATS. Appearing in musicals has been a long-cherished dream.
“For about 20 years, whenever I had a day off work, I’d go to London to watch a show! I’m a big fan! I always thought about how electrifying it would be to be on stage myself, and now I am! It gives me goosebumps and it feels like it’s where I belong!”
Appearing in Come From Away is an extra special experience, says Hiro.
“Every week in rehearsal you just fall in love more and more with the show and the characters. We’ve done a lot of research, we’re sharing everything we find out, and it’s very emotional!”
See Hiro in Come From Away from 19-22 November 2025. Evening performances at 7.30pm and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. View show information and book tickets.