Eish, who knew? After David Bowie passed away in 2016, the world mourned the loss of a true icon. We celebrated his final album, Blackstar, a poignant reflection on life and mortality. But little did we know, Bowie was secretly working on another project: a musical set in 18th-century London called The Spectator.
This hidden gem was discovered amongst Bowie's notes, locked away in his study. Now, these notes have been donated to the V&A Museum, giving fans a glimpse into the mind of a musical genius. The David Bowie Centre at the V&A East Storehouse in Hackney Wick will open next week, showcasing this treasure trove of creativity.
Inside 'The Spectator'
Bowie was fascinated by the contrast between the vibrant society and notorious crime of 18th-century London. He drew inspiration from The Spectator, a periodical commenting on London's high society. He even rated stories from the magazine in a notebook!
Crime played a big role in Bowie's vision. He envisioned public hangings and was captivated by figures like Jack Sheppard, a thief who became a public hero. But maybe the most interesting inspiration were the Mohocks. Professor Bob Harris describes the Mohocks as “young men of high social status basically getting drunk in the evening and then attacking people on the streets of London, often women, sometimes elderly Watchmen.” A Bullingdon Club of the 1700s!
Bowie's passion for theatre started early. He told BBC Radio 4 in 2002, "Right at the very beginning, I really wanted to write for theatre... to have a pretty big audience." The Spectator would have been the culmination of this dream.
A Legacy Continues
The discovery of The Spectator is a reminder of Bowie's boundless creativity and his commitment to art. Even in his final months, he was pushing boundaries and exploring new avenues of expression. Visit the V&A East to witness the magic for yourself and delve into the world of David Bowie's lost musical.
What to Expect at the V&A East
- Original notes and sketches from The Spectator
- Insights into Bowie's creative process
- A deeper understanding of his fascination with 18th-century London