Bman's Blues Report: The Evolution of Friars

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Ziggy Stardust's ripped shirt in major exhibition

With over 93,000 members Friars Aylesbury is the biggest and one of the most historic clubs in the UK. Ask anyone what Aylesbury is famous for and they will probably say: "Ducks and Friars."

Originally founded in 1969, and still going strong today, Friars became famous for its great atmosphere, iconic bands and infectiously enthusiastic audience.

Friars is universally acknowledged as having played a role in the careers of David Bowie, Genesis, Mott The Hoople, The Jam, The Clash, The Ramones, Tom Petty, Split Enz, Kraftwerk, Fleetwood Mac, Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Blondie, Talking Heads, The Buzzcocks and many more ...

Friars’ most memorable night took place on January 29th 1972, when David Bowie chose the venue to perform as Ziggy Stardust for the very first time.
The birthplace of one of the UK's most culturally significant icons, a section of Stardust's satin sequined shirt, which was ripped-off by overzealous fans during the concert, will be on show at the exhibition. Vivian Symonds, who was one such fan who managed to come away with a piece of Bowie's shirt, will be at the opening night of the exhibition. Ms Symonds is also available for interview.

Friars Aylesbury had 4 different venues in Aylesbury from 1969 to the present day.
The 4 venues were:

New Friarage Hall June 1969-July 1970 (Phase One)
Borough Assembly Hall April 1971-August 1975 (Phase Two)
Civic Centre Sept 1975-June 2010 (Phase Three)
Waterside Theatre Oct 2010 - present day. (Phase Four)

In addition, between 1969-1974, Friars presented concerts in other nearby towns including Watford, Bedford, Dunstable and High Wycombe. However it was Friars Aylesbury that presented most shows and had the reputation.

The exhibition will feature rare posters, photographs and memorabilia from Friars extensive archive as well as unique items including guitars, keyboards, horns and drums on loan from artists who have performed there.

The exhibition will also relay some of the many stories from artists and Friars members from the many concerts presented over the years. Whilst most of the shows took place in Aylesbury the exhibition will also cover "Foreign Gigs" in towns such as Bedford, Dunstable, Watford, High Wycombe and Princes Risborough.

Friars members and artists have been specially filmed talking about their memories of Friars, which will be shown in a specially created cinema section of the exhibition.

The exhibition will be open to the public from 1st March to 5th July. There will be an exclusive Private View on Friday 28 February with drinks and canapés.

Tickets on sale from 1st February 2014

Adults: £4.00
Students/ES40 holders: £2.00
Under 16's: Free
Exhibition Season Ticket: £15.00
Special Preview Evening Tickets 28 Feb 6.30pm – 9.30pm: £15.00

Tickets available in advance online from:
www.theticketsellers.co.uk or by phone 0844 870 0000
Booking fees and other charges apply.

Entry is by timed ticket.
Tickets can be booked up to the day before visit to ensure entry.
Tickets also available at the Museum for The Preview Evening and in person on day of visit (subject to availability)

OPENING HOURS
1 March to 31 March: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 4pm
1 April to 5 July: Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm
Also on the following Mondays: 7,14,21 April and 26 May 10am – 5pm

EXHIBITION VENUE
Buckinghamshire County Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP