On March 12, the Ridgefield Playhouse presented Sundog Theatre’s production of “Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream” as part of their Arts in Education series. Over 1000 students and teachers attended the performance, which used music and storytelling to bring the history of immigration through Ellis Island to life. The Ridgefield Playhouse Arts in Education program is free of charge thanks to their generous funders.
In preparation for the play, the Ridgefield Playhouse - with support from Union Savings Bank - asked students to interview a family member and share their family’s story of coming to America.
Forty-three essays were submitted, representing 24 countries including:
Austria, Belarus, Brazil, Czechoslovakia, Egypt, El Salvador, England, France, Germany, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Hungry, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Slovenia, Thailand, Ukraine, Vietnam, Wales
“The stage at The Ridgefield Playhouse shined brightly once again—not just with the talented cast of Ellis Island, but also with the smiles and voices of young storytellers. Through the annual Arts in Education essay contest sponsored by Union Savings Bank, students shared their family immigration stories, keeping history alive and honoring the journeys that shaped their American dreams." – Michele Bonvicini, USB Foundation, Executive Director.