Helen Spitz

Partial Transcript: Helen recounts her early exposure to Yiddish through her grandparents and the tight-knit family environment in Brooklyn. Despite the family becoming more Americanized, she retained and cherished the Yiddish language.

Partial Transcript: Helen began performing Yiddish songs at Junior Hadassah events, reinstating her connection with Yiddish as a young adult.

Partial Transcript: Helen joined the Delta Players, a group formed by senior citizens to perform Yiddish versions of English plays, particularly focusing on Gilbert and Sullivan musicals.

Partial Transcript: The Delta Players performed in high school theaters, the Conover Hotel, and other venues, attracting large audiences including younger attendees.

Partial Transcript: Helen notes the vibrant Yiddish cultural scene in South Florida during the 70s and 80s and its subsequent decline as the older generation passed away and younger people moved away.

Partial Transcript: Younger generations of Helen’s family and others did not sustain the same level of interest in Yiddish culture and language.

Partial Transcript: There is a resurgence of interest in Yiddish culture among the newest generation, showing promise for cultural preservation.

Partial Transcript: Helen reflects on her full life and her contributions to preserving Yiddish culture.

Partial Transcript: Helen shares a story about older women in the troupe performing as young Hasidic boys, illustrating the spirit and dedication of the group