Got A Chez Odette Memory? Show An Artifact In The New Exhibit

NEW HOPE, PA — The New Hope Historical Society and the River House at Odette's have come together to honor a key piece of New Hope culture in an ode to the legendary cabaret Chez Odette. What's more, locals have a chance to feature their own memories in the show.

Helmed by French-American actress and musician Odette Myrtil, Chez Odette once served as the "stomping grounds for the town's creative class." The venue inspired the luxury hotel River House at Odette's.

The exhibition, Odette Myrtil: Honoring a New Hope Legend, will be on display at the historical society headquarters at Parry Mansion from March 8 to May 15 of next year.

Curators plan to feature a range of historic pieces and staged decor, from photographs to artwork to other objects of interest. The show's debut will coincide with International Women's Day, and will be available on view between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. on weekends.

“Since its inception, River House at Odette’s has been dedicated to honoring the historic Chez Odette and its legendary matriarch who has touched so many lives throughout the region,” Ron Gorodesky, president of Refined Hospitality, said. “Through this joint effort, we hope to further weave ourselves into the fabric of this tight knit community and collectively commemorate our cherished memories.”

As Chez Odette was a beloved hot spot for many New Hope and regional locals, community members are invited to loan items and share their memories for inclusion in this limited-time exhibition.

Beginning Nov. 6 through Dec. 4, community members can bring their memorabilia to Parry Mansion between the hours of 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Fridays and 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on weekends.

Items will be inspected, certified, and categorized by professional archivists before the curation process begins in January of 2022. Loaned items on display will include the names of those who loaned the pieces, as well as their most cherished memory of New Hope’s famous locale. Following the conclusion of the exhibit, items will be returned to their respective owners.

Learn more at the River House and Historical Society websites.