VE Day celebrations in Basingstoke town centre
Thursday 8 May
From 12noon to 9pm
Basingstoke town centre
Join us for a day of entertainment that blends the charm of the past with lively, interactive performances on VE Day.
At 12:00pm and 1:00pm, The Bluestockings, a talented group of female vocalists dressed in authentic 1940s RAF uniforms, will take to the Top of the Town. With their impeccable vocal harmonies and choreographed style inspired by the Andrews Sisters and other iconic 1940s and 1950s vocal trios, The Bluestockings bring the golden age of music back to life. Their vibrant and engaging performances, combined with a vintage flair, offer the perfect soundtrack for a delightful lunchtime in the town centre.
At 5:00pm and 7:00pm, Scratchbuilt Productions presents the heartwarming and interactive family show, The Thornycroft Girls: The Women Who Helped Win the War. Based on the true stories of the women who worked at the Thornycroft factory in Basingstoke, where they built military vehicles during World War II, this 25-minute performance features a life-sized kit car that children can actually ride in, bringing history to life in a fun way.
As the sun sets, from 8pm to 9:00pm, the Willis Museum will shine with projections that transport audiences back 80 years to the VE Day street parties held in Basingstoke. These captivating projections celebrate the spirit of victory and community, offering a unique glimpse into the town's history.