Exhibits show off music and crafts at Queen City Ex

For those dizzy from the rides, full from the food and not having any luck winning a giant stuffed animal, there’s plenty more to take in at the Queen City Ex.

Between the Co-operators Centre and the Credit Union Eventplex, there are acrobats, illusionists, lumberjacks and a hypnotist.

As well, a new display this year captures a little piece of music history.

Enclosed in glass cases, memorabilia from dozens of bands and artists who have played in Regina over the years is being showcased through what the Ex calls the rock and roll collection.

“All the bands that were booked here in the ’60s, the ’70s, people come around and they look at them and say ‘Hey, I was there. I was at their concert’, and they got memories,” said Jim Kirko with the Ex.

Rush, Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, Nickelback, KISS and Judas Priest are just some of the artists on display.

Kirko said a number of people have seen the pictures and vinyl records, prompting them to share their stories of seeing their favorite bands perform.

“We have a lot of talent here in Regina and these people came through here and they not only played here but they used a lot of our local talent. They bring back a lot of memories from the old days,” he said.

The collection opens for viewing each day at 1 p.m. inside the Co-operators Centre in arena five.

Right across from that is something for those who have an eye, or maybe a hand, for art. Numerous items and figurines carved out of wood are there for viewing.

“We have the people who produce the art here. Some of us are working on projects and people can come and talk to us as we’re doing it. So it isn’t just that you come and you look at it.

You can ask questions,” said Linda Anderson, president of the Regina Whittlers and Woodcarvers Club.

She explained each piece of art is unique and carefully handmade, taking the artists anywhere from 50 to 100 hours worth of work. Anderson said they aren’t allowed to sell any of their pieces, which include animals like polar bears and owls, along with various caricatures.

Find out other forms of art and entertainment, locations and times here.