School children from Fairfield, New Haven, and Putnam Counties had the opportunity to connect with their family history and share their personal stories in an essay contest sponsored by Union Savings Bank and held at The Ridgefield Playhouse on April 3rd. The contest was held in conjunction with a live performance of Sundog Theater’s “Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream”—a one-hour musical chronicling the journey of immigrants through Ellis Island in the late 1800s.
Michele Bonvicini, Director of Community Relations at Union Savings Bank, awarded three elementary school students with a $50 prize each for their inspiring essays.
“Being in partnership with The Ridgefield Playhouse is one of the best ways Union Savings Bank can further our commitment to promote education and the arts for children in the communities we serve,” says Michele. “The Ellis Island programming, in particular, is a highlight for all of us. It’s a privilege to acknowledge these young authors who so willingly share their family histories.”