Library of Virginia to present film screening of ‘Finding Edna Lewis’ and panel discussion

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Library of Virginia will present a free film screening of the new documentary "Finding Edna Lewis" in two weeks, along with a panel discussion.

The documentary film screening and discussion will be held from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, in its lecture hall, which is located on 800 East Broad Street. The panel discussion will include the film’s host, Deb Freeman, Nina Williams-Mbengue, Edna Lewis' niece and chef and culinary historian Leni Sorensen.

The film, “Finding Edna Lewis," follows Freeman -- who created the "Setting the Table" -- uncovering the life of an American original, and features "little archival footage or audio featuring Lewis survives, but Freeman finds that memories of her remain strong not only among those who knew her best, but also among chefs who have discovered her cookbooks," according to the Library of Virginia.

(Photo Courtesy: Library of Virginia)

According to the library, Lewis is an inspiration for future chefs. The documentary will feature chefs and scholars including Dr. Jessica B. Harris, Adrienne Cheatham, Nicole Taylor, Mashama Bailey, Amethyst Galloway, Leah Branch and Sara B. Franklin.

To register for the event, which will have limited free parking, visit the Library of Virginia's website.