Stonington Farms Shellfish and Fair Haven Oyster Co. announce participation in two Connecticut Film Festivals
Press Release
Stonington, CT - September 13, 2024 - Stonington Farms Shellfish and Fair Haven Oyster Co. announce their participation in two upcoming festivals with a documentary short titled, "Rising Tide to Table," directed by Anthony M. Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer, State of Connecticut. The film will be featured in the Bridgeport Film Festival on Friday, September 13th, and the Mystic Film Festival on Sunday, September 22nd.
The ten-minute film highlights Connecticut's recent surge as a food destination, explaining the journey of the native oyster from the tides of the Long Island Sound to the dinner table through the voices of the local talent involved. The personal and professional stories of those behind the culinary and aquaculture industries remind documentary viewers of the interdependence of nature and humans; chefs and farmers; and unknowing, everyday people with each other.
What’s resulted from these intentional and unintentional collaborations is the rise of “artisanal mariculture” - a recently coined term for an industry that seeks to enhance the appreciation of merroir - the unique flavors, textures, environmental factors and farming practices that go into an oyster's alchemy. Mariculture comes from wine enthusiast's "terroir," and is a driver of substantial tourism to the state that is gaining traction both nationally and internationally.
"The benefits of the Connecticut oyster are too many to name. Oyster aquaculture creates quality jobs, provides people with uniquely sustainable and artisanal protein-rich food, stimulates economic activity, cleans waterways and prevents global warming by capturing carbon. Our story of oyster farming as a small, family business is Connecticut's story, and we are proud to be a part of it," Beth Simonds, Stonington Farms Shellfish.
“This film showcases what a true farm to table experience looks like when chefs and farmers operate on the same wavelength and with great integrity. Knowing the Stonington Farms Shellfish team and their practices allow me to educate my team and show them what makes a native oyster so special. The restaurant staff then educate the guests. We're building relationships with the people growing our food and the people preparing, serving and eating our food. This human-to-human connection creates more than incredible products. It creates a full circle experience. And this documentary has done an incredible job of highlighting the humanness of it all,” Emily Mingrone, Chef, Fair Haven Oyster Co., and Connecticut Chef of the Year.
“I’m proud to see our documentary featured at both the Mystic and Bridgeport film festivals. This film isn’t just a celebration of Connecticut’s vibrant maritime and culinary industries—it’s a powerful tool for educating the public about the sustainable practices that drive our success. By showcasing the work of our local fisher people, farmers and chefs, we’re not only telling their stories but also creating a deeper understanding and appreciation for oysters. Through Rising Tide to Table, we’re helping to manufacture demand by showing people just how special and essential these industries are. Whether it’s in a local restaurant or at home, we want people to know that when they choose Connecticut-sourced seafood and ingredients, they’re supporting an entire ecosystem of makers and creators. This documentary is a key piece of that mission, inspiring pride in our state and driving the future of Connecticut’s food industry.” Anthony Anthony, Director of Rising Tide to Table and Chief Marketing Officer of the State of Connecticut.
Press Contact: Elizabeth Nicoletti - enicoletti@sealifegroup.org