A Performance By The Thimble Theatre On Ellis Island
The article "Performance by the Thimble Theatre on Ellis Island" from January 1916 describes a theatrical performance for detained immigrants at Ellis Island. The Thimble Theatre troupe, comprised of children, entertained the immigrants with a play, providing a moment of joy and distraction during their wait. The event underscores the importance of cultural activities in uplifting the spirits of immigrants during a stressful period in their journey.
Mrs. Gould, Lieutenant Murray and staff on the stage of the Ellis Island Theatre © 1918 Underwood and Underwood. GGA Image ID # 2193e5d5de
The Thimble Theatre, a renowned cultural ensemble, embarked on a significant journey last week. The entire ensemble of last Saturday night, in response to an invitation from the chief clerk, Augustus Sherman, of Ellis Island, repeated their performance. This event was not just a show, but a gesture of solidarity and support for the immigrants detained on Ellis Island.
More than four hundred men, women, and children from all corners of the globe gathered, united by a love for music, a universal language that transcends borders. This cultural exchange, reflected in the faces of those whom the United States did not initially welcome, enriched their experience and broadened their horizons, fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared humanity.
There were well-dressed men and women of Northern Europe right next to Russian peasant women's mannish, hard-set faces. Next to a countenance upon which was written the simplicity of mind sat a man whom you would not wish to meet at night in a dark alley.
Among the audience were hosts of children, in all stages of life. Mr. Sherman shared that some of his charges had been ordered deported as far back as eighteen months ago, but due to the present European complications, most of the orders cannot be carried out. Despite the uncertainty of their fate, the people displayed remarkable resilience and adaptability, inspiring all who witnessed their strength.
“All sorts and conditions”—a typical audience at Ellis Island © 1918 The Theatre Magazine. GGA Image ID # 2194015f72
The Sunday afternoon concerts are held in a building similar in size to an armory. The acoustics are rather bad, but the audience was very appreciative, and the artists did their best to add a few pleasant hours to the lives of these poor, involuntary residents of the Island. Miss Foster's Irish Ballads and Miss Edens' folk songs evoked the enthusiasm of the listeners.
Mr. Keeler's recitation of children's poems and nursery rhymes, with his phonetic interpretation of sounds dear to the ears of the little ones, which evidently must Le the same all over the world, gathered around him girls and boys who wanted each time just a little bit more and his recitation lasted quite longer than had been intended.
“The Entertainment Bulletin” announces the “prescription of happiness” for each night. Lieutenant Murray, Commandant of the Naval Receiving Station at Ellis Island and Mrs. George Jay Gould © 1918 The Theatre Magazine. GGA Image ID # 21941d7d78
The concert on the Diamond Disc, a selection of operatic airs in several languages, old hymns, and chorales, concluded the program. It was amusing to watch the little ones seated in the first rows and nearest to the instruments. They didn't know where the voices and the music came from, and it is doubtful if their parents, whom they questioned wonderingly, were able to give a proper answer.
The Sunday afternoon concert, one of the many humanitarian innovations Mr. Sherman has implemented, is looked forward to eagerly by the detained immigrants; this is more proof that music, good music, finds a quick response in the heart of every human being, even if he doesn't know the technical meaning of what he hears and of what appeals to him.
Bruno, Guido, Ed. "Charles Edison's Little Thimble Theatre - A Performance On Ellis Island," in Bruno's Weekly, Volume MCMXVI, No 3 January 15, 1916.
Conclusion: The performance brought comfort and cheer to the immigrants, illustrating the positive impact of cultural engagement at Ellis Island.
Key Points:
- 🎭 Thimble Theatre Performance: A play performed by children for detained immigrants.
- 🧳 Immigrant Audience: The event was attended by immigrants awaiting processing.
- 😊 Emotional Relief: The performance provided much-needed joy and comfort.
- 👥 Cultural Integration: Highlighted the role of cultural activities in easing immigrant stress.
- 🎉 Community Engagement: Showed the involvement of local groups in supporting immigrants.
Summary:
- Event Overview: Describes a theatrical performance for immigrants at Ellis Island by the Thimble Theatre troupe.
- Positive Impact: The play brought joy to immigrants during a challenging time.
- Cultural Role: Cultural activities helped reduce the stress of detention.
- Community Support: Demonstrates local community involvement in immigrant welfare.
- Lasting Impressions: The performance left a positive mark on both immigrants and performers.
