Meet the Author: Mike Heffernan
Date: Feb 22
2:30 pm
- 3:30 pm
Where: Theatre
Step into the heart of St. John's vibrant countercultural landscape with this exclusive author talk featuring Mike Heffernan. Our moderator will lead a thought-provoking discussion as Mike discusses his latest book, "Let It All Fall: Underground Music and the Culture of Rebellion in Newfoundland, 1977-95." The narrative begins in the late 1970s, tracing the genesis of a raw and revolutionary sound that echoed from the basements and garages and political protest events of St. John's. Witness the evolution of this musical movement as it grew into a vibrant community by the mid-'90s, with numerous bands producing an astonishing volume of music despite limited resources.
This is a free event, but a ticket is required. Please reserve your free ticket online or by calling (709757-8090.
About the Author:
Mike Heffernan was born and raised in St. John's, Newfoundland. He is the author of the national bestseller Rig: An Oral History of the Ocean Ranger Disaster, which was adapted to the stage by Rising Tide Theatre and the Arts and Culture Centre, and The Other Side of Midnight: Taxicab Stories. His work has appeared in Riddle Fence, This Magazine, Our Times and been performed on CBC Radio. Let It All Fall: Underground Music and the Culture of Rebellion in Newfoundland, 1977-95 is his latest book.
Presented in partnership with Breakwater Books. Books will be available for sale in The Rooms Giftshop.
Today's Events & Programs
Fall in Love with Creativity!
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, join us to turn everyday fabric scraps into beautiful braided fabric wreaths. Inspired by our exhibition, Toby Rabinowitz’s A World Within a World, we’ll celebrate joy and creativity in everyday life while giving old materials a fresh, fabulous twist!
No experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm! Got fabric scraps you’d love to include? Bring them along! If not, we’ve got plenty to share.
Cost: $40 plus HST. 10% discount for Rooms members. Register online or by calling 709-757-8090. This workshop is for ages 16 and up.
Join us for an inspiring afternoon highlighting the artists who captured the spirit of the 2025 Canada Summer Games—live and on location. While athletes competed across St. John’s, a volunteer collective of artists worked quickly with pen, paint, and pastels as they documented the energy of competition and community in real time.
This event offers a behind-the-scenes look at their creative process, from the challenges of drawing in motion to the thrill of finding the perfect line amid the action. You’ll hear first-hand stories from the field—weather swings, crowded venues, and the art of working fast—alongside selections from sketchbooks and paintings created during the Games.
Whether you’re an art lover, Games fan, aspiring sketcher or a curious community member, this session promises insight, inspiration, and practical tips for drawing in public spaces.
Tickets: $12 plus HST. Free for Rooms members. Get your tickets online or by calling 709-757-8090.
Image: CBC/Using watercolour, artist Shay Hucklebridge captures the scene at women’s soccer at the King George V Park. (Shay Hucklebridge)