Opening Reception for Art Exhibit on Circus Memorabilia
Attracts Capacity Crowd at Castle Gallery


Earl Chaney (aka Mr. Clown) autographs a exhibit brochure for a young fan.

New Rochelle, NY, April 12, 2005 -- Under bright sunny skies, more than 200 adults and children attended the opening reception this past weekend for the newest exhibit at The College of New Rochelle’s Castle Gallery, “From Venice to Vegas: Circus Memorabilia from the Collection of Earl Chaney.”  Recently inducted into The Clown Hall of Fame, Mr. Chaney is noted for his work with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, where he was known as Mr. Clown.  He was on hand at CNR to welcome attendees, who were treated to cotton candy, popcorn, pink lemonade and a three-tiered cake resembling a circus.

CNR’s exhibit features rare artifacts from Mr. Chaney’s private collection of circus memorabilia, which ranks among the best in the world. Visitors to the Castle Gallery will see vintage photos, original circus posters, costumes, programs, clown shoes and other memorabilia -- some of which have never before been seen in public.  The exhibit is on display at CNR’s Castle Gallery through June 26.   It is appropriate for children of all ages.  Free and open to the public. For details, go to: http://www.cnr.edu/CG.htm.

 
Mr. Clown poses with Castle Gallery Board member Elaine Donavan
Blair (l.) and Sr. Mary Jane Robertshaw, OSU.

Many of the Castle Gallery staff dressed in costume. Pictured here
(l.-r. ) are:  Student Interns - Maribel Rojas, Sarah Devaney, and Dominique McIntosh, Castle Gallery Director Jennifer Zazo (ringmaster),  Castle Gallery Coordinator Katrina Rhein (showgirl), and Graduate Intern Kelly Clark (fortuneteller).

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The first Catholic college for women in New York State, The College of New Rochelle was founded in 1904 by the Ursuline Order. Today, it comprises the all-women School of Arts & Sciences, and three schools which admit women and men: the School of New Resources (for adult learners), the School of Nursing and the Graduate School.  The main campus of the College is located in lower Westchester County, 16 miles north of New York City.  The College maintains six other campus locations in New York City. Visit the College’s website at www.cnr.edu