immigration

The Story of Fiddler on the Roof

The narrative in this story helps participants recall the basic plot of "Fiddler on the Roof."  We're reintroduced to Tevye the dairyman and the character of the Fiddler himself.  Then we meet Tevye's daughters who are all seeking partners.  And we remember, experiencing a wide range of emotions, as each daughter struggles to find their way as individuals, respecting more (or less) the norms and expectations of their family and community.

It ends with the song called "Anatevka" sung by villagers as they pack their things and leave their village and traditions behind.

West Side Story

West Side Story was an acclaimed and popular Broadway musical in 1959 and then Hollywood film in 1961.  Based on the story of Romeo and Juliette, it is the story of an ill-fated and impossible love between Tony and Maria whose families and communities are at war with each other.

The conflict in this story is encapsulated in this song, an argument between Maria and her best friend, Anita.  Maria had fallen in love with Tony, a boy from the rival gang.  Maria's brother, Bernardo, was also Anita's boyfriend.