Vegan Inspired Circle V Brings Awareness to an Animal-Free Lifestyle

Joseph Baura

For many years, Electronica artist, Moby, has been a major driving force behind the ever-growing movement of veganism and the proper treatment of animals. As the owner of his own vegan restaurant in Los Angeles, Moby’s efforts in promoting an animal product free lifestyle is driven through a true passion. The vegan-centric festival known as Circle V was created in collaboration with the organization Mercy For Animals and No Doubt’s Tony Kunal. The festival at the Fonda Theatre highlighted the benefits of veganism, while also  featuring talks from panels grouping prominent names in the vegan community. Also on the program were performances, including one from Moby himself. Many vegan restaurants from the LA area were serving up their best dishes.

The day began with a talk focused around how veganism could help save the planet hosted by race car driver Leilani Munter, film director Keegan Kuhn, Twitter Vice President Shailesh Rao and television journalist Jane Velez-Mitchell. Throughout the rest of the day, other talks featured the benefits of veganism, and the fight for animal rights in the 21st century. Speakers included former NBA basketball stars John Salley and Kenny Anderson, famed tattooist Kat Von D, American cyclist Dotsie Bausch and PETA President Ingrid Newkirk.

Vegan restaurants offering tasty treats included Donut Fiend, Ramen Hood, Taqueria La Venganza, and Moby’s own Little Pine. Musical acts included The Gaslamp Killer, Valida, Cold Cave, Blaqk Audio. Jamie Kilstein chipped in with a comedy set. The headliners was Mobym who performed his latest album, “These Systems Are Failing.”

Circle V’s inaugural year could lead the event to become an LA October mainstay.

Circle V was at the Fonda Theatre on Oct. 23.