Our Last Supper:

This thesis argues that when Molisans have conversations about death and dying, they will be more willing to accept their own mortality. In addition, I advocate for musical theatre as a uniquely effective medium for death education through which Molisans will be inspired to continue to discuss death and dying. A comparison between Canadian-Molisans and Italian-Molisans perspectives on death and dying will demonstrate that Molisans fear death and dying and do not engage in death discussions because it generates anxiety. However, if prompted with ‘Death Dinners’ and/or with a musical theatre production reflecting their fears and anxieties, Molisans will be motivated to communicate their emotions, cope with their anxieties, and have the ability to live out an authentic life. Ultimately, this will assist in recognizing how these beliefs reflect the values ingrained in the Molisan culture.