(Special to the J.D.B)
A squadron of airplanes flew over Philadelphia today in honor of the opening tonight of the musical and dramatic spectacle, “The Romance of a people.” The premiere attracted one of the most distinguished assemblies in the history of the city.
Brief introductory exercises begining at 8:30 p.m. marked the opening of the spectacle, with addresses by Roland S.Morris, chairman of the committee of sponsors; Mayor J. Hampton Moore, honorary chairman; Attorney General William Schnader,#presenting Governor Pinchot; Judge William M.Lewis, chairman of the executive committee of sponsors, and Mayer W.Weisgal, the pageant’s general director.
Trains, buses and private cara brought thousands of out-of towner to Convention Hall, where an audience of more than 12,000 viewed the production, which portrays the highlights in 4,000 years of Jewish history. A cast of 4,000 singers, actors and dancers performed.
Leaders of commerce, industry, art, religion and communal activity were present.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.