Tag: David Bowie

Labyrinth Masquerade Ball

2016_0124LabyrinthMasqueradeBall

I’ve wanted to go to one of the Prince Charles Cinema‘s famous Labyrinth Masquerade Balls for a while, but it wasn’t until the sad death of David Bowie recently that I was finally prompted to go, along with some friends. The Masquerade Balls are designed for die-hard fans of the film (that’s definitely me): attendees are invited to dress up (although I didn’t do this!), sing along, cheer and generally take part in the action.

On entering the auditorium you are given a little goodie bag: I won’t give away the surprise, but you need to keep it handy as the various things inside it will be used at different points in the film. Once seated, you get to enjoy a bit of pre-show entertainment, including a judging contest for those people who did turn up in costume. And then the film begins!

I usually hate it when people talk, sing or move around in the cinema, but this kind of event is completely different – everyone there knows the film back to front anyway and the emphasis is on enjoying it as a community. I have to admit I did really like this way of enjoying one of my favourite films! Of course, I could have stayed at home and watched it on DVD for free – but then I wouldn’t have got to experience the atmosphere. An entire roomful of people singing “Dance Magic Dance” is not to be missed!

I definitely recommend the Labyrinth Masquerade Ball for any fans of the film. They do run fairly frequently, so check out the cinema’s website.

David Bowie Is… at the Victoria & Albert Museum – V&A

I visited the David Bowie exhibition at the V&A last week with my parents and an old friend of theirs. Not because I am a particular fan of Bowie, but my dad is. This was the first time he had visited London since I moved here over two years ago, and it was Bowie who helped to finally lure him down.

I had booked our tickets well in advance, which was just as well as the exhibition was completely sold out and people had to queue up for their time slot. Once we were finally inside, we were given audio guides and allowed to wander freely about the exhibition.

The first section covered Bowie’s early life, musical influences and early music. While not being a particular fan, I admired him for the huge range of influences on his music and the way in which he reinvented himself so many times. It was interesting to see his costumes and early recordings, including Top of the Pops appearances.

The second section had even more costumes, lyrics, artwork and stage props on display. I admit I got particularly excited about the props from Labyrinth.

My dad stayed in the exhibition for three hours. He said he didn’t want to miss anything. Needless to say, my mam and I didn’t stay that long. We went for a cup of tea and a piece of cake instead.