Introduction:
This evening at the historic Players Theatre in Thame, Oxfordshire, an extraordinary event unfolds as Dwina Gibb, widow of the legendary Bee Gee Robin Gibb, makes a rare public appearance in conversation with broadcaster Paul Gambaccini. More than a decade after Robin’s untimely passing in 2012, Dwina steps into the spotlight not only as his lifelong partner, but also as a film producer, poet, historian, artist, and now, the guardian of his voice and memories.
Their story began in 1980, a partnership that would span nearly 30 years. Since Robin’s passing, Dwina has spent years compiling hours of intimate, never-before-heard interviews with him. These tapes, now being transcribed, form the foundation of a long-awaited autobiography Robin hoped to publish. “It was difficult to listen at first,” Dwina admits. “But his humor shines through, and it’s a joy to finally share the man behind the music.”
In her interview, Dwina recalled her first unexpected brush with Bee Gees music while training as a ballroom dancer. Her waltz rehearsal was interrupted by a group eager to learn the new “Saturday Night Fever” moves, and she was, admittedly, a bit miffed—until she heard “Stayin’ Alive.” That track, now iconic not only in music but in medical training (its beat is used for CPR), became one of her all-time favorites.
As Dwina reflected on Robin’s musical journey, she celebrated both his tender ballads and the Bee Gees’ genre-defining evolution—from 1960s harmony hits led by Robin’s haunting vocals to the falsetto-driven disco era powered by Barry Gibb and producer Arif Mardin. “It’s amazing how they reinvented themselves across decades,” she said. “Robin was always on the keyboard at night. I’d fall asleep to his voice—it was like hearing an angel.”
Beyond the music, Dwina shared touching and humorous memories that humanized the myth. From Robin’s late-night bicycle rides in Miami (and once being mistaken for a burglar by a rookie cop), to a childhood Mother’s Day mix-up involving a church funeral wreath, her anecdotes reveal the charm, mischief, and warmth of a man often hidden behind the fame.
Tonight’s sold-out event promises more personal reflections, surprises, and a deeper glimpse into the life of a musical genius through the eyes of the woman who knew him best. For fans unable to attend in person, a livestream is available at www.thamemuseum.org.
As Dwina continues to honor Robin’s legacy through exhibitions, archives, and the upcoming autobiography, her voice ensures his remains strong—not just as a Bee Gee, but as a husband, storyteller, and soul who touched millions.
And as the event closes with the poignant “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” it’s clear: though hearts may break, love and music endure.