Saturday 1 July saw Beckenham Green absolutely buzzing with music and fun  as the Ziggy Stardust Family Fun Day took place - a community celebration of former famous resident David Bowie. Now in its second year, the day showcased local school children’s and young people’s talents in art and performance in David Bowie's memory.

 

The Bowie Art Exhibition marquee saw amazing contributions from pupils attending Churchfields Primary, Harris Academy Beckenham, Langley Park Girls’ School, Marian Vian Primary, Unicorn Primary and Hayes Village School. Messages of encouragement and congratulations for the children were also displayed from people who had been Bowie's friends or had performed, collaborated or recorded with him, including Carlos Alomar and Kevin Armstrong.

 

Stage performances drew large enthusiastic crowds which enjoyed the amazing line up of young talent performing their usual set pieces but also a Bowie song too. They also saw brilliant dance routines from Skylark School of Dance and Harlequin Theatre School and live music from Hayes School band ‘twenty-two', 'Syncd Up' and 'The Pips' from Harris Academy Beckenham. Also wowing the crowds playing solo electric guitar was eight-year-old Zayne from Churchfields Primary. Adult acts in the line-up included - tribute artist 'Jed', and the 'Spiders from Sidcup'.

 

Organisers were delighted that the LBB Mayor and Mayoress managed to squeeze the event into their busy schedule, taking time to watch the acts and visiting all the stands. The day also included a mini fun fair, street food vendors, market stalls, art and crafts activity tent and fun 70s themed games – something for everyone – and by the kind comments and congratulations received, thoroughly enjoyed by all. More fun was seen in the High Street where many people took part in the Ziggy High Street Trail “hunting” the Ziggy dolls to collect their prizes at Beckenham Green.

 

Plans are underway for next year’s event. If you’d like to take part or are interested in sponsorship, please register your interest by contacting  jgroundsell@1230.co.ujk  Subject – ZSFFD 2024.