Ten years after Bowie’s death, his iconic poses light up Peterborough

Peterborough’s rich musical heritage is set to take centre stage with the arrival of a striking new street art mural celebrating one of music’s most iconic stars, David Bowie.

Commissioned by Peterborough Positive, the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), the vibrant artwork will commemorate Bowie’s historic visit to Peterborough in March 1966.

Created by acclaimed local artists Nathan Murdoch and Tony Nero, the mural will capture the legendary performer in a bold and colourful style, reflecting the creativity and influence that defined his career.

Long before he became a global superstar, Bowie performed at the Palais on Wentworth Street with his short-lived band, The Buzz. The show, held on 10th March 1966, marked his one and only appearance in Peterborough, with tickets costing just 25p. At the time, few could have predicted the impact he would go on to have on music and popular culture worldwide.

The Palais was one of Peterborough’s most important live music venues during the 1960s, attracting some of the era’s biggest names including The Who, The Kinks, The Hollies and Manfred Mann.

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Opened in 1964 as a 2,000-capacity entertainment venue, it became a key part of the city’s nightlife and cultural identity before later being transformed into a bingo hall. Today, the former venue site is a car park, but its legacy continues to resonate with music fans.

Pep Cipriano, Chief Operating Officer at Peterborough Positive, said the mural celebrates both Bowie’s connection to the city and Peterborough’s wider entertainment history.

He added: “Music has always been an important part of Peterborough’s identity. This artwork gives people the opportunity to reflect on the city’s cultural heritage while celebrating an artist recognised around the world.”