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Nearly 85 years after Marvel’s very first comic was published, Wellington will tonight host the global premiere of Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition as part of the city’s world-class offerings on pop culture and film.
Described as the most comprehensive exhibition of art, artefacts and interactive photo opportunities ever displayed in the Southern Hemisphere, Marvel’s most recognised and well-loved Super Heroes and Super Villains – including the Hulk, Spider-Man, Venom, Ghost Rider and Doctor Strange – will transport visitors to the Marvel Universe.
It also features some of the rarest Marvel artefacts, including an original copy of the first Marvel Comics #1, published in 1939.
Exhibit Curators Ben Saunders and Patrick Reed say there’s something for everyone in Marvel: Te Whakaaturanga Mārohirohi o Te Ao.
“We want audiences to feel like they’re part of the Marvel Universe. Whether you’re a lifelong comic reader, a casual fan who has seen a couple of Marvel movies, or somebody who knows nothing about Super Heroes, there’s something in this show that you’ll find interesting,” says Patrick.
“The first Marvel comic book was published almost 85 years ago, and there’s been so much amazing work, so many wonderful stories and characters, so many brilliant creators, that we could fill entire museums and still not cover it all. The most difficult thing in working on these projects isn’t figuring out what to include, but what to leave out,” he says.
Wellington Deputy Mayor Laurie Foon says she’s looking forward to the Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition being out of this world.
“The positive economic benefits for Wellington from the exhibition and conferences hosted at Tākina have already been exceptional, and having the world premiere of Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition there will continue to exceed everyone’s expectations!
“This upcoming exhibition will attract visitors from around the motu and international guests too and will continue to build on Pōneke’s impressive global reputation as an entertainment and film industry powerhouse,” she says.
Tonight’s official opening for Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition will also feature Orchestra Wellington performing select pieces from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition opens on December 14, and runs until April 28, 2024.
Tickets can be purchased from Ticketmaster and start from $17.50 for children, $29.50 concession and $34.50 for adults. For more information, visit www.semmel-exhibitions.com, Marvel: Earth’s Mightiest Exhibition – WellingtonNZ.
