Korean and Iranian Cultures at Arlington Town Hall

If writers of fiction draw inspiration from real-life events, then inspired readers of fiction at times create real-life events. 

Liza Halley, a fund coordinator at Robbins Library in Arlington, Mass., is putting together a cultural festival on October 25, 2008, “Digging to America at the Town Hall.”  The event celebrates Korean and Iranian heritage in America.  The common human bond is Korean adoptees.

“Digging to America” (2006) is the title of the 17th novel by Anne Tyler, the quintessential 20th-century American writer who is widely acclaimed for works like "Searching for Caleb," "Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant," and "The Accidental Tourist," among others. 

“Digging to America” is about two families meeting by chance in the summer of 1997 at a Baltimore airport lounge as each awaits the arrival of a baby girl from South Korea.  One is a typical Caucasian American family, the other an Iranian American family.  The two strike up an enduring friendship. 

Tyler’s book, which explores life in America for immigrant families—with themes like cultural accommodation, belonging, identity, friendship, aging, and mourning—was chosen this year for the Robbins Library community reading program.  The program encourages youths and adults to read the book of choice and participate in various activities, such as book discussions, lectures, and cultural events related to some of the major themes of the book.
 
“Digging to America at the Town Hall,” on October 25, 2008, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 p.m., celebrates Korean and Iranian cultures.  The Quincy Korean Dance Troupe will perform at 3:00 p.m. 

For the Iranian segment, there will be poetry readings and a performance by the dance troupe Aftab, as well as a brief slide show about Iran. 

Liza Halley, the organizer of the event, is also looking for performers who can do puppet-shows or storytelling that address the diversity of the "American" experience or that includes folk tales or stories from either country.

In addition to performances, tables will be set up along the sides and back of the room with crafts for children, and with books highlighting Korean and Iranian poetry, stories, history, as well as artifacts (such as fabric, rugs, painting and tea sets) from the two ancient cultures.  Korean and Iranian food will be served at 3:00 PM.  Chairs will be set up in the center for people who wish to sit and listen to the performances.

The organizers of this rare cultural festival are seeking caterers and restaurants to donate food for the event beyond the modest budget that they have.  Due to Arlington regulations, only commercially-licensed caterers and restaurants may provide food at this public event.  Food brings different cultures together, and what a great opportunity it is to showcase the fine cuisines of Korea and Iran, sophisticated culinary cultures with thousands of years of history.  The organizers will promote the program and the donors of food as widely as possible. 

For questions regarding the event or food donation, please contact Liza Halley, fund coordinator, Robbins Library, Arlington, Mass., at lizahalley@rcn.com.

source:  BostonKAP.com