DLWP Bandstand blows away

The Whale Tail, the Sea Shell, The Heart – just some of the affectionate names for the De La Warr Pavilion Bandstand – has been torn apart by the high winds of Storm Eunice.

Launched just over 20 years ago in December 2001, this iconic piece of architecture was the result of the work of Jill Theis MBE and the Friends of the De La Warr Pavilion, supported by the Ibstock Enovert Trust and co-designed by architect Niall McLaughlin with Bexhill schoolchildren.  The Bandstand was a signal for change heralding the redevelopment project of the whole building  in 2003 – 2005 . Thanks to the continued generosity of the Ibstock Enovert Trust, the Bandstand underwent renovation itself in 2017.

Awarded the Regional RIBA Prize in 2002, the Bandstand has been at heart of our most democratic of spaces – the south terrace – and platformed international artists such as Eddie Izzard,  Keane and Jeremy Deller’s Acid Brass. It has been a springboard for first outings for local bands that became famous such as Mumm-Ra, and our many talented community choirs, musicians and groups.

We invite you to share with us your stories of the Bandstand – whether you appeared on it, danced in front of it, sat in a deckchair listening to music , had your wedding photograph taken on it, or were one of the original schoolchildren who helped design it – any memory or photograph to celebrate 20 years of the Bandstand being part of our story would be fantastic to see.

Post on FB, Instagram or Twitter tagging the De La Warr Pavilion or send your stories and images to info@dlwp.com

The De La Warr Pavilion has been bringing communities together through culture for over 85 years. We are your Pavilion and still need your support. Please click here to donate.