A convention dedicated to films and television series entered the Italian American imagination, but also a place where to discuss identity, family memory and future of the community. The third edition of Paisan Con, hosted by APA Hotel Woodbridge, in New Jersey, will continue until Sunday 20. The program includes meetings with actors, live shows, music, comedy, panel, quizzes, film screenings and a reserved area for sellers and food stands.
Among the guests announced there are numerous interpreters related to I Soprano and Those good boys, two of the productions that most influenced the representation of Italian Americans in American cinema and television. Among others, David Proval, Federico Castelluccio, Louis Lombardi, Matt Servitto, Jason Cerbone, Dan Grimaldi, Mike Starr and Gianni Russo are expected. The list also includes Eric Roberts, Thomas Ian Nicholas, Saundra Santiago, Karen Lynn Gorney and Robert Costanzo. Thematic packages dedicated to The Sopranos, GoodFellas, Green Book and A Bronx Tale are also available next to individual meetings.
Paisan Con, however, does not appear only as an autograph convention. The event was founded by an independent Italian-American actor and filmmaker who, after losing in a young age much of his family, saw the gradual weakening of those relationships through which memories, habits and traditions were transmitted. From this experience was born the idea of reconstructing in one place what the organizers call the “Paisan connection”: the sense of familiarity and support that for generations has held together families and Italian-American neighborhoods.
The other part of the project concerns younger artists. According to the organizers, for actors, directors, musicians, comedians and emerging Italian American authors, it is often difficult to find opportunities for comparison, support and access to the entertainment industry. Paisan Con therefore wants to put on the same stage already known interpreters and new creators, using cinema, music, shows and public conversations not only to remember the past, but to create new professional relationships. Participation is not limited to Italian Americans: the event also hosts artists from other origins who have contributed to works that have become relevant to this community.
The daily ticket costs $50, while the pass for the entire weekend costs 120. The entrance includes shows, panels and screenings of the film festival; photographs and autographs with guests must be purchased separately. Children up to ten years can enter for free if accompanied by a paying adult. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance, as long as there are available places.
Saturday 19 September the convention is open from 10 to 19, while Sunday 20 from 10 to 17. The venue is APA Hotel Woodbridge, 120 Wood Avenue South in Iselin, New Jersey. All updated information about guests, activities and access modes are available on the Paisan Con official website.
L’articolo Paisan Con brings together Italian cinema and pop culture in New Jersey proviene da IlNewyorkese.
