Attendees will also be invited to sample venison chili cooked to perfection by local chefs, and vote on the winning recipe. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. for chili and voting.
"At The Garden Theater, we’re all about community building. And what brings people together better than a homegrown movie and a bowl of venison chili? We are excited to gather to celebrate art made in the region, a fun film, and a tasty cook-off,” said Katie Jones, executive director of the Garden Theater.
At 6:30 p.m. filmmaker Rich Brauer, director of photography for Escanaba in da Moonlight, will take the stage to answer your questions about this film and other local favorites.
“We are always looking for unique ways to connect people to regional culture and history,” said IPR’s Executive Director Peter Payette. “This is definitely a unique event and another reason to be at the Garden, a theater we love.”
Escanaba in da Moonlight is a 2001 American classic based on the play of the same title by actor Jeff Daniels, who also directed and stars in the movie. Filmed on location in the small town of Escanaba in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the movie tells the story of Rueben Soady, who is about to become the oldest man in his family who has never bagged a buck. You don’t have to be a yooper, or even from Michigan, to enjoy the funny and affectionate pokes at the culture of deer camp up north.
Chili chefs include Rick Schmitt, of Stormcloud Brewing Company; Ed Carrella, of Vita Bella; Joe Meyers of Rocks Landing; and Steve Tebo, recently retired from The Lodge at Chimney Corners.
This film is free to the public; no tickets required. Chili will be available for free until it runs out. Beverages and popcorn will be available for purchase.
To learn more about this and other upcoming films, join the Garden Theater Newsletter.