This week on The Lo-Down Culture Cast we spoke the trio behind the new documentary, Veselka: The Rainbow on the Corner at the Center of the World. Filmmaker Michael Fiore, who wrote, directed and produced the film, joined host Traven Rice, along with Tom and Jason Birchard, the 2nd and 3rd generation owners of Veselka, the restaurant, to talk about the experience of making the film right as the Ukrainian war broke out.
The restaurant has been around for 70 years on 2nd Avenue and E. 9th Street and has been a refuge for Ukrainian immigrants, not to mention most New Yorkers living downtown, since it’s beginning. As a neighborhood hub focused on community, we talked about what it’s been like during these tumultuous times.
When we spoke, the film was screening as a limited release at Village East Cinema and had been extended, due to popular demand. The team is hoping for an additional extension if they get another strong turnout this weekend, so go see it in the theater, while you can.
You can listen to our heartwarming discussion anywhere you get your podcasts and you can watch the full episode (and subscribe!) on our YouTube channel here.
