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- By PJ Taylor, Eastern Times
It’s amazing that The Beatles and their rock n’ roll music of six decades ago still generate widespread affection, and for one local radio DJ, it’s been a constant interest through life.
Robert Turner, presenter of two weekly shows on East FM, has been a fan of Liverpool’s Fab Four since they first hit global music’s big time and charts in 1963.
Rob’s been an enthusiastic music memorabilia collector since the 1960s and some of his special possessions are now on display at Papakura Museum until the end of July.
The In The Groove exhibition shows unique pieces, posters and albums Rob has picked up down the decades.
Kara Oosterman, the researcher at Papakura Museum, has assisted Rob in preparing his rare Beatles memorabilia for public presentation with displays and storyboards.
The interesting and informative exhibition is set out so viewers can easily follow The Beatles’ career chronologically from 1963 to 1970.
“I’m thrilled. These guys have done a fantastic job,” says Rob, of In The Groove.
Alan Knowles, the Papakura Museum curator, says The Beatles exhibition has appeal to “older and younger” pop-culture fans, him included.
He says New Zealand museums always display artefacts from further back in history, such as from the 19th century, so having “something fresh from recent history” makes for an eye-catching change.
“It has been connecting with audiences because The Beatles are universally known.
“It’s also great having a wonderful collection from a member of our local community,” Knowles says of Rob, a retired butcher who has been a Papakura resident since 1960.
“In The Groove has been a team effort. Rob’s items are in immaculate condition, and it’s rare you find a collection in such a great state.”
This is the second exhibition of music memorabilia Rob has had on display at Papakura Museum, in and around May, NZ Music Month, and plans are already being made for what pop culture treasures he’ll show next year.
Knowles says Papakura Museum has been in existence for 50 years, is funded by the Papakura Local Board, and has permanent displays telling the history of the area.
Of In The Groove, the museum says: “From the upbeat, toe-tapping rhythms to experimental beats, this exhibition showcases the legends, the sounds, and the transformative power of groove music.
“Explore the visual artistry behind album covers, vintage posters, and concert memorabilia, offering a glimpse into this golden age.”
- Robert Turner has two weekly shows on East FM, East Auckland’s long-running community radio station: Hits, Misses and Memories on Fridays, 10am to 1pm; and The Rock n’ Roll and Country Extravaganza, on Sundays, 3-6pm.
