‘Starman’ City Gig Honoured By Street Art Mural
Peterborough city centre is set to welcome a colourful new piece of artwork celebrating its rich musical heritage and one of the world’s most influential artists, David Bowie.
Commissioned by Peterborough Positive, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), the vibrant new mural will pay tribute to David Bowie’s visit to Peterborough in 1966.
Created by renowned local street artist Nathan Murdoch, the artwork will capture the iconic musician in a bright and colourful style, honouring his legendary status in music history.
The mural celebrates Bowie’s one and only performance in Peterborough, when he appeared at the Palais on Wentworth Street on 10th March 1966 with his short-lived band, The Buzz.
Long before becoming the global superstar known and loved around the world, Bowie took to the stage at the city’s premier music venue as part of his early career, performing to Peterborough crowds for just 25p a ticket.
The Palais on Wentworth Street was one of Peterborough’s most significant live music venues during the 1960s, welcoming some of the era’s biggest acts including The Who, The Kinks, The Hollies and Manfred Mann.
Originally opened in 1964 as a 2,000-capacity entertainment venue, the Palais played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s live music scene before later becoming a bingo hall. The site, once buzzing with music fans and live performances, is now a car park.
Pep Cipriano, Chief Operating Officer at Peterborough Positive, said:
“Peterborough has a fantastic musical heritage, with venues past and present playing host to incredible talent and unforgettable performances over the years. Music has always been an important part of the city’s identity, and by using an instantly recognisable figure such as David Bowie, this artwork creates intrigue while helping to tell the story of Peterborough’s rich entertainment history. “It celebrates Bowie’s visit to the city, while giving people the chance to reminisce, connect and celebrate the cultural heritage that has helped shape Peterborough over the decades.”
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Sources and photo credits: https://theyplayedpeterborough.com/