Anne Gerhard, Programs and Grants Coordinator, Telluride Historical Museum
(970) 728-3344 x4, anne@telluridemuseum.org

Museum Unveils New Exhibit, Voices of Wartime; Telluride During WWII And commemorates the 70th anniversary of D-Day with the Swingin’ at the Sheridan Swing Dance

(Thursday, May 22, 2014) The Telluride Historical Museum is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest exhibit, Voices of Wartime; Telluride During WWII on Thursday, June 5. The exhibit explores the history of the Second World War through the unique lens of Telluride residents.
Voices of Wartime is a revealing look into how daily life in Telluride changed – and did not change – during the War. It captures the experiences of local residents through oral histories, preserving their stories for current and future generations. Voices of Wartime also uses artifacts and photographs from local families, and through the Museum’s recent Smithsonian Affiliate status, has borrowed artifacts from collaborating Affiliate partners, such as the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. The loaned artifacts have powerful, often tragic stories, and help to put the local oral histories in their global context. The exhibit also includes period radio programs, newspapers and newsreels, and engages visitors with additional interactive displays that tease the brain and get toes tapping.
Be the first to see Voices of Wartime; Telluride During WWII during the exhibit opening celebration on June 5 from 5-7pm. Light refreshments will be served during this free event, and all are welcome.
Over 475 San Miguel County residents served during World War II. In commemoration of their service and to mark the 70th anniversary of D-Day, the Museum presents the Swingin’ at the Sheridan swing dance, to be held at the Sheridan Opera House on Friday, June 6 at 7:30pm. Local swing band Swing City Express will be there, playing the best hits of the era.
Swingin’ at the Sheridan is fun for all ages, and a wonderful way to celebrate with the whole family after Telluride High School’s graduation. Don your best 1940’s apparel and jitterbug the night away. Tickets for this event are $10 and can be purchased online at telluridemuseum.org or at the door.
Don’t know how to swing dance? Not a problem! Locals Laura and Lance Colbert are teaching two free swing dance lessons at the Sheridan Opera House. On Tuesday May 27 and Tuesday June 3 from 6:00pm-7:30pm you can learn to cut-a-rug with the best of them during these laid back beginner classes. All are welcome.