Portland Museum To Host Mel Blanc Exhibition

Many of us know Mel Blanc as the voice of Bugs Bunny, Pepe Le Pew, Barney Rubble, and countless other cartoon characters. But who is he really? Did you know that he grew up in Portland? Did you know the original spelling of his name was Blank? Did you know that Mel Blanc was the youngest conductor ever to lead the RKO Orpheum Orchestra? Did you know that he was the first voice artist in Hollywood to receive screen credit?

Many say that Mel Blanc was the first and best voice actor. He made it an art. His career spanned vaudeville, radio, movies and television starting in the late 1920s and continuing to this day, more than 20 years after his death. The Oregon Jewish Museum presents a loving tribute to this homegrown and gifted comedian.

The exhibit follows the trajectory of Mel Blanc’s life from his youthful years in Portland to his remarkable Hollywood career as the voice behind more than 400 animated characters in over three thousand cartoons. Film, sound, photographs and memorabilia will entertain adults and children alike. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the person behind the voices. Most of all come prepared to laugh long and loud!

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Oregon Jewish Museum
1953 NW Kearney Street, Portland, OR 97209
Ph: 503-226-3600 www.ojm.org

Exhibition Hours beginning June 2011:
Tuesday-Thursday 10:3am — 4:00pm
Friday: 10:30am — 3:00pm
Saturday & Sunday: 12:00pm — 4:00pm

Museum Admission:
General Public: $6
Students and Seniors 62+: $4
Children under 12: Free
OJM Members: Free