GENE PITNEY: THE ROCKVILLE ROCKET Exhibit to Open at Arts Center East
Arts Center East today announces the opening of a retrospective exhibit celebrating the life and career of legendary Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer and Rockville, CT hometown boy, Gene Pitney, The Rockville Rocket.
A comprehensive collection of memorabilia has been drawn from Gene’s personal archives and will feature many never-before-seen items from his childhood in Rockville through his storied career. Prominent among these is a fully operational jukebox from the 1961 movie Town Without Pity, a film inspired by Gene’s hit song. Hand-written song sheets, family photos, tour posters, fan magazines and unique items from his Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame induction are but a few of the wealth of artifacts on display.
The exhibit also includes many items from Rockville’s historic past including the former Palace Theater marquee, one of Gene’s first performance venues.
In conjunction with the exhibit Arts Center East has scheduled a number of special events.
- On Sunday, July 29 at 2:00pm, noted author Anthony Renzoni will give a talk about his book Connecticut Rock ‘n’ Roll: A History followed by a book signing.
- On Friday, July 27 from 7:30-10:00pm, everyone is invited to a 60’s Band Night and Sock Hop.
- In a related event, singer Eva Devine will present a Gene Pitney tribute concert on Friday evening, August 10 at 7:00pm at Union Church in downtown Rockville. Concertgoers are invited to stop by Arts Center East before the performance during special extended gallery hours.
The exhibit opens on Sunday, July 22 and runs through Saturday, August 18. Gallery hours are Thursday, through Sunday from 1:00-5:00pm. The opening reception and party will be on Saturday evening, July 21 from 7:00-10:00pm. Guests will enjoy jukebox music, refreshments, door prizes and a trivia contest.
Gene Pitney: The Rockville Rocket is made possible through the cooperation of the Pitney Family and The Gene Pitney Commemorative Committee. United Bank is a contributing sponsor. Arts Center East, East of the River’s regional arts center since 2012, is a non-profit cultural organization dedicated to: Advancing the Arts For All Through Education, Events, Exhibits and Performances.
For more information about this exhibit and other events, contact Arts Center East at: artscentereast@gmail.com or visit our website CLICK HERE