City of Rochester
News Release
(May 12, 2009) - Mayor Robert J. Duffy today announced a full 2009 season of both familiar and all-new FREE laser and fireworks shows starting Memorial Day weekend at the High Falls District, 60 Brown’s Race (off State Street). “American Salute,” a patriotic-themed program with laser animation and light displays choreographed to such familiar tunes as “God Bless the USA” and “Star Spangled Banner,” opens the season on Memorial Day weekend, May 22-24.
To commemorate the 175th Anniversary, the City will introduce an all-new laser and fireworks show in July to replace “River of Light,” in use since 1993.
“In keeping with all the excitement of our 175th Anniversary, we’re thrilled to soon unveil our new blockbuster show that will captivate audiences all summer long,” Mayor Duffy said. “The production, created locally by Rochesterian Greg J. Winter of WINTEK, will capitalize on all of the exceptional talent we have right here in our own backyard.”
The new show will focus on Rochester’s colorful local history, highlighting such standouts as Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, as well as Rochester luminaries in sports, music and the arts. It will feature locally-made animation and music.
The City’s new show will debut Thurs. and Fri., July 2 and 3 (no show July 4) and continue every Thurs., Fri. and Sat., from July 9 through Labor Day weekend. Spectators may continue to enjoy the current “River of Light” show every Friday and Saturday from May 29-June 27.
All shows are projected onto the wall of the Genesee River gorge, which is illuminated by laser animation and special effects, fireworks, ever-changing lights and a state-of-the-art music soundtrack.
Each laser show begins at 10 p.m. and is about 20 minutes in length. The shows are best viewed from the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge in the High Falls District on Platt Street off State Street. (Shows are not usually cancelled due to inclement weather). Parking is available in the High Falls Parking Garage located on State Street. For more information, call 311 (outside the city limits, call 585-428-5990) or go to www.cityofrochester.gov.
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News Media: For information contact Grace Girsch, 428-6026.