How NJPAC Empowers Communities through Social Impact and the Arts

Experience Literature to Life: Engage with Local Performances in Paterson

Update Bringing Stories to Life in Paterson Literature to Life (LTL) is on the verge of an exciting moment for the Paterson community as they present Books Unite, a series of free events aimed at connecting literature with live performance. Running throughout the year, this initiative invites local residents to engage with powerful stories, share their interpretations, and develop a deeper appreciation for reading and the arts. Exploring I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter The first event focuses on I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez, a poignant coming-of-age novel that takes readers through the emotional journey of a young girl striving to find her own voice amidst cultural expectations and family grief. Through a compelling live performance, audiences will witness how the characters grapple with identity, family dynamics, and the complexities of adolescence. The live adaptation, which features actress Elizabeth Raquel Ramirez, aims to provide a multi-dimensional experience of the narrative. Adaptation and direction will be handled by Ana Maria Jomolca, who intends to explore themes of trauma and resilience, ensuring that the performance resonates with the audience in a personal way. A Year-Long Celebration of Literature Set to take place at the Passaic County Community College (PCCC) Theater, the performance will occur on Thursday, March 5th, with showings at 1:10 PM and 6:00 PM. This event is complemented by a vibrant book club at the Paterson Free Public Library (PFPL), opening dialogue about the novel and engaging participants in rich discussions surrounding its themes and realities. The community is invited to these events to deepen their understanding of the literature. The first book club takes place on March 2nd and hopes to spark meaningful conversations and connections among attendees. LTL also offers a post-show interactive workshop at PCCC on March 12, encouraging participants to further explore the book's themes and their relevance in today’s context. The Role of NJEDA in Cultural Enrichment Supported by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), which has contributed a substantial grant to help revitalize communities through arts and culture, this program highlights the importance of local initiatives. As Lisa Beth Vettoso, Executive Director of LTL, said, “Stories have the power to open doors—into imagination, empathy, and possibility.” This sentiment serves as the driving force behind their mission to make literature accessible. By partnering with local organizations like PFPL and PCCC, LTL aims to transform Paterson into a hub for cultural exchange and artistic expression, particularly in a city steeped in rich cultural history. According to Vettoso, sharing these stories fosters a stronger community spirit, drawing residents together to celebrate their shared experiences. Anticipating Future Events After I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, the series will continue in April with F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, followed by The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz in October. Each month presents new opportunities for community engagement and emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling. For those who want to stay updated, additional performances and events will be available on LTL’s website, where community members can learn about upcoming activities and participate in discussions about different literary works. The continuous rotation ensures a year-long engagement with stories that can resonate deeply with our lives. Inspiration from Community Voices The celebration of literature through live performance not only enriches the cultural fabric of Paterson but also empowers individuals to reflect on their own experiences. Emphasizing human connection, LTL encourages attendees to see elements of their lives and communities reflected in literature. Participating in these events can inspire young people to consider writing their own stories, fostering a new generation of storytellers. This initiative promises to engage all voices, illustrating that even the most complex narratives can be lifelines to empathy and understanding. Join LTL in this literary celebration! If you’re a lover of the arts and literature, don’t miss out on the first performance of this enriching series. For more information and to explore all that these events have to offer, follow New Jersey Stage.