It is time to break out the round glasses and flared jeans, as the South Canterbury Museum gets ready to host its annual musical time warp.
Next Saturday, February 14, from 7pm, five local bands will be taking to the stage outside the museum for the eighth edition of Retro Rock.
South Canterbury Museum director Philip Howe said they wanted to take the event back to its roots this year with a ’70s theme.
‘‘We had the idea to hold a fashion contest and we’re hoping that people will embrace the opportunity to jump on that because the ’70s had some great fashion.
‘‘People can dress as a flower child from the early ’70s, a disco king or queen or they can go punk which launched with the Sex Pistols in 1976, 50 years ago this year. We want to see a sea of colour and a variety of styles.
‘‘Because it will also be Valentine’s Day, we’ve obtained sponsored prizes in the form of $50 vouchers from the Ringmakers and the Oxford Restaurant.’’
Audience members are also able to take part in a local retro history quiz, enjoy refreshments from mobile vendors and take time out looking through the museum which remains open during the event.
Museum Development Trust chairman John Simpson said despite the ’70s theme the event catered to people of all ages.
‘‘A lot of people don’t necessarily come to an event because they may feel that they’re the only ones dressed up.
‘‘We want to make it that if you don’t come dressed up, you’re the odd one out.
‘‘We want people to turn out, exercise their alter egos, take that opportunity and be as crazy as they want.’’
Taking to the stage this year are The Song Pilots, Ace, Remedy, Wayward Sons and Daughters and VHS.
They will all play a variety of groovy music from the ’70s through to modern day hits.
Dancers from Timaru’s Bronzbeat Studio of Dance will also perform during a couple of the band changeovers.
Mr Howe said it was great to provide a platform that gave local musicians exposure.
‘‘There’s a good variety of acts and as long as the weather’s good, we’re going to have a great night.’’
The event is free to attend and will run until about 10.30pm.
