“Rui Veloso: A Life in 45 Laps”
Rui Veloso celebrates 45 years of career with a unique exhibition in Gaia
Scheduled to open on September 9th, the exclusive exhibition explores the most memorable moments in the career of the singer-songwriter – an iconic figure in Portuguese music – and anticipates a memorable concert.
With a 45-year career, Rui Veloso is an undisputed figure in Portuguese music. To mark this special date, Vila Nova de Gaia will host a unique exhibition that portrays its history and legacy. The exhibition “Rui Veloso: A Life in 45 Laps” will be on display at ArrábidaShopping starting on September 9th, inviting all Portuguese music lovers to take a closer look at the musician’s personal and professional life, revealing the journey that led him to national recognition.
The exhibition is free and can be visited until October 21st in the Central Square, Ground Floor.
In addition to never-before-seen photographs, the exhibition, curated by SOTA – State of the Art – will feature personal objects, exclusive items such as platinum and double platinum records, the artist’s guitars – his most beloved instrument –, iconic clothing, album covers, and other never-before-seen elements. The exhibition also includes a collection of fan items and a special space dedicated to the artist’s longtime friends.
Singer and songwriter born in Lisbon in 1957, Rui Veloso is a fundamental figure in Portuguese rock. Raised in Porto, he began his musical career at an early age, releasing the album Ar de Rock in 1980, which became a landmark in the genre with hits like “Chico Fininho,” shared with Carlos Tê, its lyricist. Recognised for his innovation in Portuguese music, Rui Veloso won awards such as the “Sete de Ouro” (Golden Seven) and collaborated with national and international artists. Throughout his career, he released several successful albums and helped establish rock music sung in Portuguese.
The celebration doesn’t stop there. “Não há estrelas no Céu” and “Porto Covo” are some of the iconic ballads that will be heard by everyone at the concert taking place on October 3rd at ArrábidaShopping, which promises to transport the audience on a nostalgic journey through hits that have marked several generations. In a vibrant atmosphere, the event will be memorable for the artist’s fans and for new generations who will have the opportunity to discover the timelessness of his songs.
Admission to the concert is free, subject to prior collection of wristbands.
As part of the Arrábida Music competition, an initiative aimed at finding the artist or band responsible for opening the main show, 36 entries were registered, resulting in six finalists: Anabela, Márcia Carvalho, Times of Trouble, Davi Days, Break Even, and Canções de Sofá.
The winner will be announced on September 18, 2025, when the finalists will perform their songs live for a jury composed of representatives from various organisations, including ArrábidaShopping and SOTA – State of the Art.
“Marking Rui Veloso’s 45-year career at ArrábidaShopping is, for us, a way to celebrate the history of Portuguese music, by honouring an artist who has influenced several generations and maintains a strong connection to the city of Porto. This exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the singer’s journey through previously unreleased pieces. The concert will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of this celebration, allowing the audience to relive some of the most iconic songs from his career. It is also a reflection of our commitment to providing relevant and accessible experiences for the entire community,” says Tomás Furtado, director of ArrábidaShopping.
Date and Location:
Exhibition: September 9th to October 21st, at the Central Square – Ground Floor
Concert: October 3rd, in the Ground Floor outdoor parking lot
Admission: Free (The show requires reserving a wristband on the ArrábidaShopping website and collecting it at the Information Kiosk.)
About ArrábidaShopping
Opened in 1996, ArrábidaShopping boasts a diverse selection of stores, spanning a Gross Leasable Area (GLA) of 59,894 m2. Renovated in 2008, ArrábidaShopping reflects its sophistication and elegance in its approximately 168 stores offering a wide range of services. It has approximately 3,400 parking spaces. The cinemas are also an added value in the Centre, with a capacity of 4,000 people, along with SouldPark Bowling, a unique and innovative space in the Porto area. Alongside the unique shopping and leisure experience it offers its customers, ArrábidaShopping is committed to contributing positively to a more sustainable world, actively striving for exceptional environmental and social performance. All the Centre’s initiatives and news can be found at www.ArrábidaShopping.com.
Always confirm with the concert hall or promoter the access conditions, confirmation of the date and time, ticket sales location, price, and availability.
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