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The Spa Bridlington is one place where the impact of WW1 made its mark on the entertainment industry of Britain. In 1915, with the aftermath of anti-German riots; the council run Spa considered reducing the performances of its hugely popular European performers as the musical tastes of the country were changing, with audiences demanding a more patriotic form of entertainment.

One performer under threat was Austrian-born Herr Julian Kandt and his famous band. His popularity with the audience eventually saved him and Kandt remained a resident musician at The Spa Bridlington from 1914 until illness stopped him performing in 1917.

Incredibly, even with a drop in audiences, the spa remained open for business throughout both World Wars, offering a full programme.

Today the view outside the theatre at The Spa Bridlington is still much like that seen 100 years ago, where promenade passers-by would have enjoyed the sounds of Kandt under an arched arcade of glass that overlooked the Bridlington coastline.

Location: The Spa Bridlington, South Marine Drive, Bridlington East Riding of Yorkshire YO15 3JH
Image: Courtesy of Bridlington Local Studies Library

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