Alumni Weekend

Special Collections Archives Rock This Town Exhibit

Special Collections Archives’ latest exhibition, Rock this Town, showcases music in Waterloo Region both on and off campus, from Sangerfests to Oktoberfests, from polka to punk.

This exhibit was created to compliment the documentary Rock This Town, produced by Waterloo alum Betty Anne Keller (BA ’69), screening Friday, June 2 at 7 p.m.

Join us on the first floor of Dana Porter Library to celebrate the opening of this exhibit on Thursday, May 25 from noon – 2 p.m. Staff from Special Collections Archives will be on hand and light refreshments will be served. All are welcome.

Rock This Town: Music and Memories

Can you imagine a day without music? It surrounds us from the moment we wake up. You had to own an instrument or know someone who did, to hear music being played. Before radios became common, you might only hear music at a concert or a parade. Music became a force that brought people together. Since the beginning, Indigenous songs, stories and ceremonies had a great deal more importance, meaning, and impact to their daily life.

This exhibit endeavors to highlight some of the multifaceted live music moments we have enjoyed in the area, which includes a rock and roll confessional of memories from those who were part of the local music backdrop from the late 60s to the 80s. Through interviews, memorabilia, and music interactives, the exhibit is packed with backstories of famous musicians who played in Kitchener-Waterloo. Not to be overlooked are the many local successes we have turned out such as 80s Juno award winner for RB/Soul recording of the year Erroll Starr, Copper Penny, Major Hooples Boarding House Band, and Helix, just to name a few. You will learn why music and song continues to be an ingrained component of Indigenous life that flourishes in the modern era. It will celebrate early Waterloo when music was much rarer. How we hear music will be displayed with a history of musical devices featuring local industries Marsland Engineering, Electrohome and BlackBerry.

Learn more about this exhbiit at the City of Waterloo Museum website.

Rock This Town

Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. and we encourage you to arrive early to enjoy the live music, archives and memorabilia displays and to pick up your refreshments before the screening begins. Wear your favourite vintage band tee or Waterloo gear for a chance to win great prizes!

WHEN: Friday, June 2, 2023 | 7:00 p.m. ET, doors open at 6:45 p.m.

WHERE: Federation Hall, University of Waterloo

PARKING: Complimentary parking available across campus. Lots M and R are closest to the event.

EVENT PROGRAM: 7:00 - 7:30 p.m. - Live music and reception
7:30 - 8:45 p.m. - Rock This Town film screening
8:45 - 9:30 p.m. - Post-screening chat

Your ticket includes a drink ticket and concessions voucher for popcorn or chips and a sweet treat. Additional drinks and snacks will be available for purchase on-site by debit or credit only. Attendees will be required to show valid government-issued photo identification in order to consume alcohol.

Forever Black and Gold Luncheon

Do you have any vintage UWaterloo items hidden away? We want to see them! Bring your old jackets, sweaters, yearbooks - whatever you can find! Guests who wear or bring nostalgic items will be entered into a draw for a chance to win some great prizes.

WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 2023 | 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. ET

WHERE: Federation Hall, University of Waterloo

PARKING: Complimentary parking available across campus. Lots M and R are closest to the event.

Your ticket includes a gourmet buffet lunch and a drink ticket. There will be halal, vegetarian and vegan options available. Beer and wine will be available for purchase on-site by debit or credit only.