08 September 2016
Crowdfunding campaign launched to help restore the iconic ‘Bowie’ Bandstand
The Friends Group for Croydon Road Recreation Ground have launched a crowdfunding campaign to help restore the iconic 'Bowie' Bandstand in Beckenham. They are running this campaign in order to restore the historic bandstand where David Bowie performed at the Beckenham Arts Lab Growth Summer Festival in 1969.
Following the sad news of David Bowie's death earlier this year, the bandstand became a focal point in Bromley where fans were able to leave memorials to their hero.
The bandstand is also the last identifiable one of its type and has a wealth of musical heritage, having been the venue for many musical performances by well-known and not so well-known bands and individuals since its installation in 1905.
Once complete, the restored bandstand will also be a fit-for-purpose performance space, which will offer a variety of entertainment opportunities. It will be a living legacy to Bowie and the other famous names who performed that day back in 1969 and, hopefully, will continue to host many more memorable performances in the years to come.
In total, £93,000 is still needed in order to complete the restoration of the bandstand, in addition to the £35,000 already raised. A Bowie festival, organised by a group called "Memory of a Free Festival" and supported by the Friends, raised a massive £15,000!
Whilst the Friends group are putting every effort to fundraise for the project, the restoration of the bandstand will not be possible without the help of supporters!
Supporters have different opportunities to contribute to the restoration of the bandstand:
- Supporters can pledge a donation at www.spacehive.com/bowiebandstand. Every donation is reflected on the crowdfunding page in the "backers" section. For businesses, this is a great opportunity to display their logo and show their support to a community project.
- Supporters are also invited to purchase a personalised brick around the much-loved landmark. The bricks, which cost £100, can commemorate a loved one; celebrate a special occasion; promote a business or be a personal tribute to David Bowie. The bricks will form the circular pathway around the structure and can be purchased at www.bromley.gov.uk/bowiebandstand.
For more information, please visit their website here.
