Wed, May 27, 2:00 PM
Opening Sunday, March 15th from 3:00pm at the Italian Educational & Cultural Center \(IECC\) at Casa Colombo, 'Louis Prima: Rediscovering a Musical Icon' is an exhibition produced in collaboration with the Gia Maione Prima Foundation and the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles \(IAMLA\) that explores the life and legacy of Louis Prima \(1910-1978\), a skilled jazzman, prolific songwriter, and extraordinary performer. Although he is no longer a household name, Prima’s music is omnipresent, from film and television to viral TikTok videos, Disney tunes, and hit covers by contemporary artists. The exhibition examines Prima’s background and inspirations, his rise to success, artistic prowess, and role in transforming Las Vegas into a glamorous nightlife center. Grammy Award-winning, multimillion-dollar hitmaker Louis Prima was also unapologetically Italian American during a time when such displays of ethnicity were frowned upon. He helped pave the path for other performers, including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and Perry Como. Through hits such as “Sing, Sing, Sing,” “Jump, Jive, an’ Wail,” and “Angelina,” as well as personal effects, memorabilia, and rare images, the exhibition enables visitors of all ages to discover, or rediscover this groundbreaking performer and true legend of the music world. Running through Saturday August 15th, this show is open to the public on Wednesdays & Thursdays from 10:00am to 3:00pm, Saturdays from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, and for additional weekend tours by appointment only.