It is one of the most iconic performances in the history of modern music: the moment where David Bowie retired his Ziggy Stardust alter ego in front of an audience of 5000 fans on July 3, 1973 at London’s Hammersmith Odeon.

Bowie’s decision to retire Ziggy, the character that had made him a star, and split his band, The Spiders From Mars, secured his future, allowing him to become the restless, inquisitive, and shape–shifting artist that we know him to be. That one moment also changed popular culture, unleashing a set of artistic and ideological freedoms that are still being enjoyed by musicians and the wider creative community today.

For the 50th anniversary of the performance, the film was digitally restored with never-before-seen footage.

Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars
Director: D. A. Pennebaker
Running time: 1h 30m
Year: 2023
Rated: G

Concession opens and music starts at 7:00pm

Film starts at 9:15pm

Admission to Deckchair Cinema is by a suggested donation of $10-$20, courtesy of BMO Financial Group, and includes popcorn as well as access to the Gallery’s summer exhibition Star Witnesses, a cosmic journey through art and history.

Reserve a picnic table by donating in advance

View the full Deckchair Cinema 2025 lineup here

About Deckchair Cinema
You are invited to enjoy classic films under the stars on Cates Deck in front of the Gallery. Now in its fourth year, Deckchair Cinema treats audiences to a summer of al fresco film screenings. Hosted for nine Thursdays beginning July 3, the screenings commence at sunset, and will be complemented by music and entertainment leading up to curtain time. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and make themselves comfortable by bringing their own blankets or low chairs. A concession stand will feature drinks from Strathcona Beer Company.