SPRING REVELS 2001

Emerson Majestic Theatre, Boston May 4-6, 2001.

Staged by Artistic Director Patrick Swanson, with music direction by George Emlen, the 2001 Spring Revels celebrated the spirit of the thousands of hopeful immigrants who came to America through the port of Boston during the latter part of the 19th century. We met Italian, Irish and Eastern European Jewish families as they got to know each other, sing songs, tell tales, dance, and celebrate both their differences and their shared experiences and ambitions. Highlights included Irish step dancing, a Purimshpiel mummers play, stories from Maggi Peirce and Norah Dooley, and performances by David Coffin, Brian and Aoife O'Donovan, the Meshugenuh Klezmer and Evan Harlan and the Steerage Band.

After attending the 2001 Spring Revels with her sons, ages 7 and 5, an audience member wrote:

"What a special joy it was! We enjoyed every moment; My boys did not want to blink! And on the way home, they asked many questions about their ancestors' voyages to America. Since that day they have asked to see family photographs and hear grandparents' stories about immigration. So, this Revels production was not only highly entertaining, but also managed to make a difference in our family's life. Thank you and congratulations!"

Photos by Roger Ide