Grades 1-5
Curriculum connections: History
Twelve million people passed through Ellis Island on their way to a new life in America from 1892-1954. This musical captures the essence of the immigrant experience and their journey to a new world.
A one-hour musical about the journey of immigrants through Ellis Island.
Ellis Island served as the portal for immigrants coming into the USA from 1892 to 1954. Before its closing, an estimated 12 million people passed through on their way to a new life in America. This one-hour musical geared towards young audiences as well as the entire family captures the essence of their journey.
Six professional actors in period costumes weave this intriguing tale with dialogue and songs of their experiences traveling into America. They were filled with hopes and excitement to begin new lives, with some encountering obstacles along the way.
A wonderful supplement to the school curriculum, Ellis Island: Gateway to a Dream artfully tells the story of how our ancestors began to call America their home. Today, many US citizens are descendants of those same immigrants. Because it relates to current as well as past events, the show holds the attention of audiences young and old as they relate to the show’s characters.
The Makin Waves Song of the Week is "ICE SS" by the Central Jersey punk act Sally Draper.
