Italian Heritage Month arrived in New Jersey at Hackensack High School this October in the most joyful way possible , through music, dance, and the universal language of celebration.
New Jersey is home to a vibrant Italian American community, but Hackensack stands out for something even more powerful: its rich multicultural identity. Here, many cultures coexist, learn from one another, and share their stories — and this event honored exactly that spirit.
World-class artists Simona Rodano, Pasqualino Beltempo, Bianca Delli Priscoli and Giuseppe Agostaro from Italy brought the rhythms of La Tarantella to life, transforming the school auditorium into a lively piazza filled with applause, laughter, and students dancing alongside the performers. For many attendees, it was a first-time experience, a moment to discover the heartbeat of Italian traditions and understand how they connect to community, history, and joy.
Principal Montesano warmly welcomed the artists, expressing enthusiasm for providing students with opportunities to engage directly with cultural heritage. “Thank you!! The performance was wonderful and our school community truly enjoyed it” he shared, noting how meaningful it is to celebrate both identity and diversity right inside the school walls. Italian and Spanish teacher Ms. Tejada, who played a key role in bringing this program to the school, expressed pride in seeing her students connect so energetically: “Culture comes alive when students can feel it, when they dance it, sing it, and share it together. Today, they weren’t just learning about Italian heritage… they were part of it.”
Students and teachers were fully engaged, clapping, smiling, and even stepping onto the stage to try traditional moves themselves. The performers encouraged participation not just as entertainment, but as a reminder that culture is meant to be lived, not simply observed.
What made this event truly special was its message: Every culture has a beautiful story to tell. By celebrating Italian heritage during this month, Hackensack High School highlighted the shared values that unite us, family, community, creativity, roots, and the courage to grow. Music and dance connected everyone in the room. Barriers disappeared. Culture became conversation.
And as the applause echoed at the end of the performance, one thing was clear: Italian Heritage Month is not only about remembering where we come from, it’s about celebrating who we are together.
