Museum of the Gulf Coast will present several showings of the BBC documentary “Southern Discomfort” to celebrate what would have been Janis Joplin’s 69th birthday. Showings will be at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. each day beginning Thursday, Jan. 19 through Sat., Jan. 21. Film attendance includes complimentary admission to the Museum’s many exhibits including the Gulf Coast Music Hall of Fame featuring 65 artists of different genres. The first 10 people to attend each day will receive a free itunes compilation CD featuring the music of Joplin as well as artists who either inspired her or were inspired by her.

Janis Lyn Joplin was born on January 19, 1943 in Port Arthur, Texas. She would later become one of the most influential musicians in American music history. This iconic singer and artist has been given the informal title “Queen of Rock.” Although Joplin’s early years which included attending Port Arthur Schools, Port Arthur College and Lamar University in Beaumont were not uncommon, Joplin was a true individual. Stepping out from the conformity of the 1950s, she eventually found herself in California.
The Museum’s Music Hall of Fame features a permanent exhibit on the life and career of Janis Joplin with a wide array of artwork, personal effects, photographs and memorabilia as well as a replica of Joplin’s painted Porsche. Audio-visual touch screens as well as an old fashioned juke box allow visitors to see and hear Janis’ soulful performances. The Museum’s gift shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs commemorating Joplin’s influence and worldwide impact.

Visitors may also enjoy seeing Port Arthur sites related to the life of Janis Joplin. A downloadable driving tour brochure is available on the Museum’s website: www.museumofthegulfcoast.org and hard copies are available at the Museum and the Port Arthur Convention & Visitors Bureau located at 3401 Cultural Center Dr., Port Arthur, Texas 77642.

The Museum of the Gulf Coast is owned and operated by the Port Arthur Historical Society in partnership with Lamar State College – Port Arthur and the City of Port Arthur. It is located at 700 Procter Street in downtown Port Arthur. The Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information or to schedule a tour,  call 409-982-7000.