A docudrama about immigration in Western New York during the
Great Depression, with reference to the West Side, will be shown at SUNY
Buffalo State’s Burchfield Penny Art Center.
The film titled, “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” details the
Italian-American community from 1939 to present. It was written and directed by
Michael Giallombardo and Joseph Giambra. The scenes were shot around all areas
of Buffalo including a special cameo of Guercios and Sons Inc. on Grant
Street.
The next screening of the film will be at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 12. General admission tickets are $10 each.
Mary
Ann Lauricella, a promoter for the show, explained how it took four years to
produce and more than 450 volunteers dedicated their time. Buffalo State
College helped support this production by giving a $6,000 grant
towards this film. All stories featured are told through narratives and
re-enactments of real-life situations.
“So
many people in the community gave their time and authentic materials. For
example, a lot of interviews were done right on Buffalo State’s campus, where
people provided letters that they had from loved ones who were away during
World War II,” Lauricella said.
One
of the directors, Joseph Giambra, 80, encourages people to see the history that lies within their
own backyards.
“There
are parts of the film where people will laugh and parts where people will cry,
but most importantly I want them to see all the memories that people have
shared,” Giambra said.
The
screenings will offer DVD copies for purchase at the end of the film. By Marybeth Calabrese and Ally Selva
