Celebrating "The Day of the Dead" (Día de los Muertos) is deeply significant for immigrant communities in the United States. Originating from Mexico and other Latin American countries, this tradition connects the past with the present, the living with the dead, and home countries with adopted lands.
For many immigrants, Día de los Muertos is more than a holiday; it expresses cultural identity and continuity. It helps them honor their ancestors and maintain their traditions in a new country. They create a sacred space that bridges the physical and emotional distance from their homeland through altars adorned with marigolds, sugar skulls, and photos.
This communal event brings together families and communities to remember and celebrate loved ones. It strengthens bonds, fosters belonging, and ensures cultural heritage is passed down to future generations.
In the U.S., where immigrants face challenges, Día de los Muertos is an act of resilience. It highlights the value of cultural diversity and preserving heritage while offering non-immigrant communities a chance to learn and appreciate these rich traditions.
Ultimately, the Day of the Dead is a celebration of life, identity, and community, allowing immigrant communities to stay connected to their roots and assert their cultural identity in a new land.
Second to Fifth Grade
Muertitos!
Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of Día de los Muertos with a show that will captivate your students from start to finish! We bring two spine-tingling stories to life, where your kids watch and become part of the action.
First up, a tale told with string marionettes where a stubborn woman refuses to cook for her ancestors. But when her brand-new dress suddenly appears with a spooky skull pattern, she’s in for a shocking surprise! Then, we dive into the eerie story of a young man who doubts that the dead can return—until the skeleton of an old friend pays him an unexpected visit!
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Between the stories, we’ll delve into the vibrant symbolism behind each ofrenda on the altar, making the traditions of Día de los Muertos come alive in a way that will inform and inspire your students!
Middle School
The Souls of The Dead
What happens when we forget our ancestors? Sometimes, with un buen susto (a good fright), they remind us they’re still very much around! This show dives into the heart of Día de los Muertos, where stories and traditions come together in a powerful exploration of memory and legacy.
Imagine a man who, with good intentions, invites a "muerto" to join his family’s Día de los Muertos celebration. But when the dead arrive, his wife is in for a chilling surprise! Then, meet a young woman who, after years of tension with her sister, decides to skip the offerings on her altar. But when Christmas rolls around, she’ll receive an eerie reminder of the importance of honoring the dead.
Between these captivating tales, we’ll dig deeper into the rich traditions that shape Día de los Muertos and the meaningful symbolism behind the ofrendas on the altar. This show is a perfect blend of storytelling and cultural exploration that will leave your students thinking long after the final curtain.
High School and other audiences
Celebrating the ancestors and their stories
Prepare to journey through the rich tapestry of Mesoamerican poetry and storytelling in a show that explores the profound connection between life and death. This performance invites you to reflect on the wisdom of our ancestors and the belief that death is not the end but a reunion with those who came before us.
In one tale, a skeptical woman who has turned her back on tradition receives a powerful reminder that her ancestors are patiently waiting for their ofrendas. In another, an old man who feels his life’s purpose has faded away is shown that stories can rekindle the spark of life, reminding us that our narratives continue long after we’re gone.
Between these evocative stories, we delve into the deep symbolism of the ofrendas on the altar, uncovering the layers of meaning behind each item. This show offers a moving and thought-provoking experience that speaks to the timelessness of tradition and the enduring presence of those who have passed on. It is perfect for high school students, older audiences, and seniors who appreciate the beauty and depth of cultural heritage.
