Appeal launched for dancing and music memories

Déda and QUAD have teamed up to appeal for people’s memories for a special project which will throw the spotlight on the city’s dance clubs and music scenes in the 1960s and 1970s.

Backed by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project, called Dancing Through Time: from Pop to Punk in the City of Derby, will explore the social clubs, dance halls, dance movements and music from those decades.

In preparation for a series of FORMAT related exhibitions in 2024 and 2025 showcasing the project, Déda and QUAD are asking for help from the people of Derby and Derbyshire.

They are asking for those involved in the dance, clubs and music scene in Derby between 1960 and 1979 to submit any photos, memories and memorabilia they have of the venues, the people or anything that captures the overall feel of the scene.

The project hopes to bring these venues alive once again and allow people to share memories while making sure this period of social change in the city is never forgotten.

An online archive will also be created with the images and is due to launch later this year.

There will also be the chance to get involved through sharing days, dance workshops, social dancing events and more.

Peter Bonnell, QUAD’s arts programme manager and FORMAT festival director, said “QUAD is excited to partner with Déda on this ambitious project that will involve a range of different communities in Derby via an important slice of the social and cultural heritage of the city.

“We are deeply grateful to National Lottery players and The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their generous support for this project.”

To get involved with the project, scan and share your images, memorabilia and stories via the online form, by emailing oceanf@derbyquad.co.uk or by following the @‌DancingThroughTimeDerby Instagram page and submitting your images using #IWasThereDerby.