By Gwen Mayes Feb. 3rd, 2011

Experience the power of Elvis Presley and the explosive impact he had on music and popular culture in the Newseum's newest exhibit, "Elvis! His Groundbreaking, Hip-Shaking, Newsmaking Story."

The exhibit celebrates what would have been Presley's 75th birthday year. It tells the story of Presley as he was portrayed in the news media and explores how his music and physicality pushed the boundaries of mainstream taste and free expression.

Produced in collaboration with Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc., the exhibit includes a number of rare objects from the vaults of Graceland that have never been publicly displayed. These items include private telegrams, letters and documents that chronicle Presley's rise as a music and media sensation.

Exhibit Highlights

• A Newseum-produced video featuring vintage footage of Presley, shown on the 90-foot-long wall in the Robert H. and Clarice Smith Big Screen Theater
  
• Rare photographs, original newspapers and magazines covering Presley's career
  
• Presley's iconic 1957 Harley-Davidson motorcycle
  
• The "American Eagle" jumpsuit and cape Presley wore during rehearsals for his 1973 "Aloha From Hawaii" concert
  
• The gold and diamond belt presented to Presley in 1969 for breaking Las Vegas attendance records

Although the Newseum's popular Elvis exhibit leaves the building February 14, a spectacular final act, the "Love Me Tender" special deal, runs through the end of the month. During the month of February, grab someone special and take advantage of a two-for-one discount on museum admission. Buy one general admission ticket and get a second ticket, of equal or lesser value, free.

The Newseum
555 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20001
www.newseum.org