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It seems like the entire world has gone 80s made at the moment. With the new season of Stranger Things just concluding, Kate Bush having a much deserved second bout of fame, and the recent Download Festival in Leicestershire headlined by 80s icons KISS and Iron Maiden. We’re giving you the lowdown on how you can relive the decade that fashion forgot in Leicester.
I Grew Up 80s
All summer long, Leicester Museum and Art Gallery is hosting the ultimate 80s exhibition, dedicated to all those toys, movies and games that defined the decade. From Transformers to He Man, Dungeons and Dragons to Spectrums, and Madonna to Mad Max, revisit everything great about the 1980s. Guaranteed to make you cry “How can my childhood toys be in a museum?” this is the best nostalgia trip you’ll go on this year.
Back to the 80s at Phoenix
Throughout July, Leicester’s Phoenix cinema is running special screenings of some of the classic films of the 80s. Throughout the month you’ll be able to take in childhood favourites like Back to the Future and the Goonies, cult classic Big Trouble in Little China, awesome action films Predator and Robocop, and romantic comedies Pretty in Pink and Hairspray. And what’s even better… They’re all at 80s prices, just £3 a ticket! So grab your popcorn and settle in for entertainment!
Get your dancing shoes on for Billy Elliot
Set during the miners strikes that defined the political environment of the 1980s, the stage musical Billy Elliot comes to the Curve theatre. With music by Elton John, this adaptation of the 2000 coming of age film revolves around a young boy taking up ballet lessons in a stereotypically masculine household. Dealing with prejudice, discrimination and unemployment, this heartwarming story will have you cheering in the aisles. Running from 13 July to 20 August, don't miss out!Book your tickets now!
Take a Fitcation and try some 80s inspired sports!
Our new campaign, Fitcation, is aimed at getting you off the sofa and out into the wild to try something new. And you can try some great 80s inspired activities. The legwarmers are optional, but you can get onto the roller rink at Midlands Roller Arena near Lutterworth. There are extra sessions during the summer holidays too!
We all remember the days of school and scouts activities and taking to the water on a canoe, and you can do that on the River Soar and at Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre. From climbing and abseiling to kayaking, there’s loads to get involved with in Leicestershire.
Get on your bike and relive those long hazy days of summer that seemed to never end. If you want to explore the National Forest on two wheels, either bringing your own bike or renting one, we’ve got you covered. Or if you’re feeling really adventurous then test your skills at Snibston Collery Park’s 4km blue rated mountain bike trail.
Upcoming 80s themed events
They were one of the biggest bands of the late 70s and early 80s and you can see a tribute to ABBA in the open air at Conkers on Saturday 23 July. The King of Pop was a global phenomenon thanks his albums Thriller and Bad, and you can catch one of the top tributes to Michael Jackson outside at Conkers on Friday 29 July.
The hit musical Chess debuted in 1984 and with songs written by Benny and Bjorn from ABBA and lyrics by Time Rice, you know you’re in for a great night. It’s one night in Bangkok and one great night at Curve from 10-13 August. Pop icon Adam Ant is returning to De Montfort Hall at the start of September and there are still loads of tickets available, so get on your frilly shirt and feathered earrings and get ready to Stand and Deliver (seated tickets are also available).
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