Abba display marks 50 years since Eurovision win

Success in Brighton turned Abba into one of the world's most successful groups

An exhibition celebrating 50 years of Abba is set to open in the city where the band won the Eurovision Song Contest.

The Swedish group began a hugely successful career at Brighton Dome on 6 April 1974 when they came first in the contest singing Waterloo.

Abba: One Week in Brighton, at Brighton Museum, aims to "relive the excitement of the week that catapulted the band to fame".

The event will share the personal stories of those who were there as well as a display of props and photos, a museum spokesperson said.

Abba won Eurovision at Brighton Dome on 6 April 1974

Stories included in the exhibition include the international journalists who enjoyed Brighton's pubs so much they missed the show, the man blamed for cutting off Terry Wogan’s electricity supply, and the taxi driver Abba treated to a private performance of the winning song.

Exhibits include the drum kit sourced for the band at the last minute that sounded the first beats of Waterloo and a feather plucked from presenter Katie Boyle’s evening gown.

The drum kit used for Abba's performance (pictured at the Dome) will be on display

Exhibiton curator Jody East said: “The 1974 Eurovision Contest was a culturally significant moment and it’s wonderful to collectively celebrate memories of Abba's victory and the part Brighton played.

"We hope visitors will enjoy sharing these stories together.”

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Hedley Swain, from Royal Pavilion and Museums Trust, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming Abba fans of all ages from near and far to mark this important anniversary.”

The exhibition runs at Brighton Museum from 28 March to 4 August.

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