ASPARAFEST!
The Event. The Film. The Food.
Film screening of Asparagus! : Stalking the American Life, Q&A with director Kirsten Kelly, Asparagus Throwdown! Cooking Competition, and Asparagus themed art gallery.
June 6, 2010 | 2491 Summit St. | $10
THE EVENT
We will celebrate Asparagus in all its glory, starting with an exclusive screening of the hilariously quirky, poignant, and highly acclaimed film Asparagus! : Stalking the American Life. Afterward we’ll continue the party with an insightful conversation with director Kirsten Kelly and then satisfying our craving for Asparagus with Asparagus Throwdown! a delicious food competition featuring a host of local entries and Columbus celebrity judges! And if that wasn’t enough this special evening will also feature a collection of talented local visual artists and crafters riffing on this beloved vegetable in an all-asparagus themed gallery.
THE FILM
Our friends in Michigan are having a tough time. Not only are thousands of union members out of work, the government is helping other countries grow asparagus as part of the war on drugs, creating unfair competition for farmers in Oceana County, once the Asparagus Capital of the World. But these farmers are not giving up! Taking on fast food, free trade and the U.S. drug war, these indomitable growers struggle to find creative ways to save their livelihood and their beloved “roots”. This fascinating, award-winning film, called ‘oddly brilliant’ by New York Magazine, unveils the complex connections between community identity, farming, politics and trade. A must see for foodies, film lovers, and all those passionate about living local!
“Oddly Brilliant!” - New York Magazine
“A Charmer!” - The Kansas City Star
“This subtle but powerful film unveils intricate connections among community identity, family farming, national politics and international trade, while at the same time revealing the aplomb and good cheer of these indomitable, spear-struck Michiganders.” - Full Frame Documentary Film Festival
