"The Rocket" scores with Museum-goers of all ages
Gatineau, Quebec, December 1, 2004 — The Canadian Museum of Civilization is pleased to announce that over 160,000 people have visited the exhibition “Rocket” Richard: The Legend — The Legacy since its opening on April 9, 2004.
The exhibition on the life and career of one of Canada’s greatest sports heroes has struck an emotional chord with many people, drawing an impressive 20,000 visitors a month since it opened eight months ago. Messages left at the exhibition’s popular “speaker’s corner” video booth include countless stories and vivid memories of time spent listening to a hockey game on the radio. Many people have chosen to leave personal messages addressed directly to the Rocket, while others speak of their pride and awe of his achievements as a fierce competitor and exciting hockey player.
“The exhibition’s popularity can be attributed to the continuing appeal of ‘The Rocket’ as a symbol of strength and talent for an entire country,” says Dr. Victor Rabinovitch, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Civilization. “Grandparents and parents have visited this exhibition with their grandchildren, sons and daughters, recounting anecdotes and sharing precious memories with a new generation of young Canadians.”
“Visitors, fans and ‘non fans’ alike have written to us to say how moved they were by the exhibition,” adds curator Sheldon Posen. “As a cultural symbol, Maurice Richard has become part of the social fabric of this country, and his memory is revered to this day.”
The exhibition presents 100 remarkable objects, and half of them were once owned by Maurice Richard, including the last Number 9 hockey sweater he wore as a playing member of the Montreal Canadiens, hockey sticks used to score landmark goals, trophies, pucks, skates, sweaters, his Hall of Fame induction ring and the original copy of his retirement speech. Tribute songs and personal stories told by team-mates and opponents round out this portrait of a player and his city. Richard’s memory draws Canadians together in celebration of our national sport.
The exhibition “Rocket” Richard: The Legend — The Legacy is produced in partnership with Canada Post and is presented at the Canadian Museum of Civilization until February 20, 2005. It is scheduled to travel across Canada between September 2005 and May of 2010.
Media Information:
Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: (819) 776-7167
Fax: (819) 776-7187
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