This presentation will also be streamed live on our Facebook page.

The film narrates the inspiring story of their grandfather, Salvadoran Colonel José Arturo Castellanos. 

In 1942, Castellanos was the ambassador of El Salvador to Switzerland. Witnessing the persecution of European Jews by the Nazi regime, he acted with determination, courage and bravery to rescue thousands of lives while putting himself and his family at risk. 

Using the influence and power of their diplomatic position, he and his first secretary, George Mandel‐Mantello, issued over 13,000 Salvadoran citizenship papers to thousands of Jews and other victims of Nazi persecution across Europe who were trying to escape the horrors of the Holocaust. The operation, known as the “Salvadoran Action,” became one of the greatest rescue missions during the Second World War. 

This broadcast of The Rescue: A Live Film‐Concerto features a 30‐minute version of the full‐length documentary film accompanied by a musical performance pre‐recorded live in New York City. The concerto was composed by Alvaro and Boris Castellanos, who also perform, playing bass and piano alongside a Latin chamber music and Latin jazz group.

The broadcast will be followed by a live online discussion with Alvaro and Boris Castellanos about their journey to uncover their grandfather’s story and share his legacy. 

Please note that this program is subject to change or cancellation without notice.