Recently restored by the National Center for Jewish Film, this classic Yiddish film presents the problems of the immigrant experience, including alcoholism, separation and poverty—along with a heavy dose of old-fashioned melodrama. The Living Orphan centers on a stage couple that separates as a result of the demands of the theater and spends the next twelve years competing for the affection of their young son.  The son is played by child-actor Jerry Rosenberg who would later change his name to Jerry Ross and co-author the musicals Damn Yankees and The Pajama Game. The Living Orphan is a wonderful example of the sentimental dramas that were created to entertain and educate the immigrant masses in the years just prior to WWII. Writing in the Village Voice, J. Hoberman declares, “The Yiddish term for The Living Orphan is shund (trash), and it's a generous example, offering something for everyone.”

Presented free thanks to the Arthur Tracy “The Street Singer” Endowment Fund.  This fund was established by the family of renowned singer and entertainer Arthur Tracy to support performing arts programs at the Washington DCJCC.

CO-SPONSORED BY Yiddish of Greater Washington

Introduction: Sharon P. Rivo, director, National Center for Jewish Film, Brandeis University

In Memory of Miriam Saul Krant (z"l)
See the WJFFblog for a statement from the Festival Director, Josh Ford