Taking a trip back in time: Relive David Bowie's iconic 1980 performance at Joe's Pub, courtesy of Michael T.'s mesmerizing, glam-filled production
In the heart of New York City, Joe's Pub played host to an extraordinary theatrical concert show in early August 2025. The event, named "Bowie: 80", was a labour of love by performer, DJ, and club promoter Michael T., who paid tribute to David Bowie's most varied 12-month period – the year 1980.
Michael T., a native New Yorker, has had a long and diverse career, starting in various clubs where he worked as a party promoter, doorman, MC, DJ, and performer. His admiration for Bowie's "Scary Monsters" era was evident in the meticulously crafted production.
The show was designed as a mini Off-Broadway-style production, with distinct chapters, costume changes, and multimedia elements to evoke Bowie’s artistic phases around that time. The band, consisting of top-tier musicians, delivered both well-known Bowie songs like "Ashes to Ashes" and "Fashion," and deeper tracks such as "Teenage Wildlife" and "Crystal Japan." Visual projections supplemented the performance with Bowie imagery and related cultural references.
The setlist, while not officially complete, included highlights like "Ashes to Ashes," "Fashion," "Teenage Wildlife," "Crystal Japan," and "It's No Game (Part One)." The theatrics in the show indicated an ambitious direction for future productions.
Michael T.'s 87-year-old mother, brother, and aunt attended the performance and approved of it. He was fully present for the release of "Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)" and considers it his favourite Bowie period.
Michael T. expressed his satisfaction with the "Bowie: 80" production, stating that he was happy to stick to his original idea instead of going for something more commercial. He views songs as scripts to be interpreted and entertained, and this philosophy shone through in the production.
Following the success of "Bowie: 80", Michael T. has two upcoming Halloween shows. On Oct. 30, he will host a Sally Can't Dance tribute to the Cramps at Bowery Electric. On Oct. 31, he will be part of the 50th anniversary celebration of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" at The Slipper Room. You can keep up with Michael T.'s performances by following him on Instagram at @temichaelmt.
At present, there is no public information available on any future scheduled performances of "Bowie: 80" at Joe’s Pub or elsewhere. However, given the success of this production, it's not hard to imagine Michael T. bringing his unique brand of tribute shows to stages across the city in the future.
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