The St. Louis Historical Society invites you to enjoy a presentation celebrating the 100th anniversary of Polka Legends Frank Yankovic and Johnny Pecon. The event is free and will be presented by Joe Valencic, President of the National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame and Museum.

Polka has been around a long time, but never enjoyed a hey day like it did with these two men.  The presentation will show a movie that will tell the story of this new style of American dance music how it emerged from Slovenian settlements in places like Cleveland, Ohio and Minnesota’s Iron Range. In the decade after WWII, America’s Polka King Frank Yankovic and bandleader Johnny Pecon, both born in 1915, were two of the most influential musicians to popularize this happy, danceable music among a wider American audience. Their recordings and appearances touched off a polka craze that is still enjoyed throughout the Midwest.

The event will be held in the Underground theater of the Depot (St. Louis County Heritage & Arts Center) on July 30, 2015, at 2:00 p.m. This event will honor the 100th anniversary of polka legends Frank Yankovic and Johnny Pecon. The event is free and the public is invited. Complimentary birthday cake and beverages will also be served.

If you have any questions or need more information contact Susan at 218-733-7586.

 

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