Martha’s Vineyard Museum Plans 50th Anniversary Exhibition for “JAWS”
The Martha’s Vineyard Museum will take visitors through a retrospective journey with a new exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of “JAWS.” Opening on May 24 and running through Sept. 7, the exhibition will feature several behind-the-scenes photographs from the thriller’s recording, original props, and reflections from Massachusetts locals who witnessed the filming of the 1974 blockbuster, notes a report by the website The Daily Jaws.
According to an announcement on the museum’s website, the comprehensive exhibition presents photographs, oral histories, art, and movie props exploring how Martha’s Vineyard became the fictitious Amity Island. Visitors will discover the story behind the storyline of Steven Spielberg’s epic film.
Highlights of the JAWS exhibition will include the following:
- Amity Island Comes to Life: This feature documents how the quaint community of Martha’s Vineyard was transformed into the fictional town of Amity. Never-before-told stories, photographs, and designs recount the cinematic drama that transformed the community into the stage for a major motion picture spectacular.
- Then and Now: Test your knowledge about “JAWS” filming locations and discover how these spots have changed over the years.
- “JAWS'” Enduring Appeal: Find out what makes “JAWS” a film that has endured for audiences 50 years later.
- Sharks Today: Explore the latest advances in shark research with interactive displays and insights from conservation experts with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy.
Special programming features accompanying the exhibition will include:
- A Q&A with the film’s production designer Joe Alves
- Tours of the “JAWS” filming locations with local tour operators
- Panel discussions and meet-and-greet experiences with Martha’s Vineyard natives who were part of the film’s production
- Collaborative events with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, with talks by leading experts such as Dr. Greg Skomal.
The Martha’s Vineyard Museum is at 151 Lagoon Pond Road in Vineyard Haven. For more information, call 508-627-4441 or visit the museum’s website.
