The spirit of the Starman himself will soon be alive and well in Kingston. March 24 and 25, 2017 has been designated David Bowie Weekend, to the delight of music lovers and misfits alike.
The City of Kingston’s cultural services has concocted a glittering weekend celebrating the iconic artist, who left us just over a year ago, and far too soon. More than just a late-night rock show, this weekend will have something for every Bowie enthusiast, from the young to the young-at-heart.
Photo via Sara Smith
Friday, March 24
Ziggy Played Guitar at The Grand
Ziggy Played Guitar, a full-album tribute to The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, will kick off the weekend at The Grand. Audiences will be treated to a faithful, note-for-note performance of the glam-rock masterpiece. Want to get really into the spirit? Relive the golden years of glam by putting on your tallest platforms and sparkliest androgynous outfit, and get your lightning bolt makeup done before the show by the crew at Total Diva. (Reserve your makeup appointment with Jenny Pedler at jpedler@cityofkingston.ca).
Saturday, March 25
Oh! You Pretty Things at Tett Centre
Introduce your youngsters to some new and inventive stories, and help them create their own unique sense of style, at Oh! You Pretty Things at the Tett Centre. The day will feature a special glam-rock edition of KFPL’s Family Storytime, including stories that centre around rock music, as well as a Ziggy Stardust-themed tale. And just as Bowie championed creativity, colouring outside the lines, and being true to yourself, your kids will have the chance to explore their own weird and wonderful imaginations with crafts, fashion dress-up, and special Bowie-inspired face-painting. It would certainly be an oddity if space for this event didn’t fill up fast, so reserve your spot before March 16 by emailing Jenny Pedler at jpedler@cityofkingston.ca.
Photo via flickr.com – rubengarciajrphotography
Saturday, March 25
You Remind Me of the Babe at The Screening Room
Ever wish your kids could experience the wonder that you did, when you first laid eyes upon the fabulousness that is Bowie’s King Jareth in the classic Jim Henson film Labyrinth? Now’s your chance to introduce those absolute beginners to this family favourite (and maybe do a little dance, magic, dance!) at You Remind Me of the Babe, a dress-up and sing-along showing of the movie at The Screening Room. Parents and kids alike are encouraged to get into the spirit by dressing up in their Hoggle-iest togs. Getting into this show will be much easier than navigating the labyrinth – admission is free – but show up early, as seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Saturday, March 25
Let’s Dance at The Grad Club
Does a long work week have you feeling under pressure? Reelout Queer Film Festival encourages you to put on your red shoes and dance away the blues at the Let’s Dance dance party and fundraiser at The Grad Club. The Thin White Duke’s most boogie-friendly songs – spun to perfection by DJ Drop Shadow – will provide the soundtrack for a glamorous and fun-filled evening alongside some of Kingston’s most eclectic creatives. Admission is $10, with proceeds supporting Reelout Arts Inc., dedicated to diverse programming and representation in our city. Just think: while you’re dancing the night away, you could also be heroes… just for one day.
