Bella, An Immigrant's Tale, is a one woman show about the life journey of Bella Indianer, performed and written by her granddaughter, Vicki Summers, who acts as numerous characters in the play. Bella survived the pogroms in Russia in what is now modern-day Ukraine, and later emigrated to America in 1920 where she married and raised a family. (It is particularly relevant today as it seems that history is repeating itself with the horrific war in Ukraine.) This is a story of resilience, courage, humor and love, universal themes that connect us all. The goal of this play is to bring to life a Jewish American immigrant's experience with all its challenges and rewards. But more importantly, Vicki’s mission is to encourage each of us to discover and record our own precious, family stories before they are lost to time. 

With Bella, An Immigrant's Tale, Vicki Summers has penned a true love story. This charming one woman show takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster ride. Bella's tale paints a picture of a life full of courage, joy, patience, disappointment and resolve. As she takes us along her journey, it is evident that in spite of or maybe because of the many challenges she faced, Bella is full of love for life itself and especially for her family. It is impossible to leave a performance untouched by Bella.

-- Elizabeth L.