Sarducci's Restaurant, a hallmark of culinary excellence in Montpelier, Vermont since 1994, is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the 23rd Green Mountain Film Festival.
Nestled on the picturesque banks of the Winooski River, Sarducci's Restaurant has been a favorite for both locals and travelers alike. Renowned for capturing the true essence of Italian cuisine, the restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients, with many of their dishes featuring local farm foods. The Green Mountain Film Festival, an event that showcases the artistry and creativity of filmmakers, finds a strong community partner in Sarducci's, a place where artistry is equally valued.
“Sarducci’s has been a festival sponsor since day one. We love being part of a community that values art in a variety of forms. Visitors travel from all over to experience the magic of our little town. We’re glad to help foster that with this partnership,” said Jeff Butterfield, Executive Chef and owner.
The festival returns to Montpelier after a three-year pandemic-related hiatus and a transfer or responsibility to ORCA Media, the city’s community access television station.
“ORCA Media is proud to be the next steward of this beloved program,” said Christopher Wiersema, one of the nonprofit's Co-Directors and Advisory Board Chair of the festival. “We’re committed to the arts and community engagement in Montpelier and are happy that Sarducci’s is too.”
While the pandemic shuttered the festival, this summer’s floods also made the festival’s future uncertain, as nearly all of downtown’s businesses were damaged by the flooding.
“It’s been a pretty rough year for Montpelier,” said festival director Phayvanh Luekhamhan. “Now that the theaters have reopened and restaurants and shops are opening again, the festival–along with the rest of downtown–can rebound.”
It's coming together, she said. “We believe that the arts are essential for spiritual and emotional healing and that film especially is a wonderful experience that we can all enjoy together.”
Sarducci’s experienced only minor flood damage and throughout the summer was an anchor where the community could gather while other parts of downtown were rebuilding. Their traditional Italian menu and extensive wine list were a welcome reprieve from the work.
“For us,” Butterfield said, “it’s about supporting each other–through the good and tough times. I’m glad Sarducci’s can help bring the festival back. The community really needs this–I know I do.”
ABOUT THE GREEN MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL
Established in 1997, the Green Mountain Film Festival is a non-competitive festival showcasing narrative, documentary, and experimental features and shorts from all over the world - nestled in the mountains of Vermont. This will be the 23rd festival. The Green Mountain Film Festival is an independent project that is fiscally sponsored by ORCA Media.
Contact: info@gmffestival.org