From variety, musicals and comedy giants to Shakespeare, ballet, drama and dance, this venue caters for every age, pocket and personality. Find out what’s on next at Blackpool Grand Theatre.
Highlights of the 2019 season include the NEW summer production ‘Around the World in 80’s Days’ and ‘Comedy Chaos’ with the lovely Steve Royle.
WHAT’S ON AT BLACKPOOL GRAND THEATRE
The Sound Of Music
17 to 20 April, shows at 7.30pm, plus 2.30pm matinee on Saturday
This Easter the hills (and the coast) are alive with a dynamic new production of The Sound of Music, presented by Ensemble Theatre. An ‘all time classic’ guaranteed to touch everyone’s heart. Featuring Climb Ev’ry Mountain, Edelweiss and So Long, Farewell – This Oscar winning musical will be one of your ‘favourite things’ to see with all the family.
The children of Captain von Trapp fill their days playing funny tricks on everyone all around them but secretly want a mother to love them… only one person fits the bill, Maria! So, starts the adventure of a lifetime, and one that will change their lives forever.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Hello Dolly
24 to 27 April, shows at 7.30pm, plus 2pm matinee on Thurs/Sat
This musical, first shown in 1964, has become one of the most enduring musical theatre hits, with four Broadway revivals and international success. Dolly has been played by stars such as Carol Channing, Mary Martin, Danny La Rue and, most recently in 2017, Bette Midler.
At the turn of the 20th century, New York City is excited because widowed but brassy Dolly Gallagher Levi is in town. Dolly makes a living through what she calls “meddling” – matchmaking and numerous sidelines, including dance instruction and mandolin lessons. She is currently seeking a wife for half-millionaire, Horace Vandergelder, but it becomes clear that Dolly intends to marry Horace herself. Will Dolly get her man and will Cornelius and Barnaby fulfil their wishes?
Featuring the well-known songs Elegance, It Only Takes A Moment, Put On Your Sunday Clothes, It Takes A Woman and, of course, Hello Dolly, this fast-paced musical comedy is a show not to be missed. Presented by Blackpool Operatic Players who performed Priscilla, Queen of the Desert in 2018.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
In the Willows
30 April to 4 May, shows at 7pm plus 2pm matinee on Weds/Sat
Explosive new British musical, with soaring vocals and spectacular street dance, starring Olivier Award winner Clive Rowe, deaf street dancer Chris Fonseca (The Greatest Dancer), Seann Miley Moore (X Factor) and Matt Knight (Let It Shine).
Mole’s first day in ‘The Willows’. Her classmates look a bit scary. Surely Mr Badger will look out for her, as streetwise Rattie, rich kid Toad and cheeky Otter teach her the ways of The Riverbank. But when Toad gets locked up for joyriding, the Weasel Clan break into his (lily)pad. It’s now only a matter of time before Chief Weasel reveals Mole’s dark secret…
This classic story is brought leaping into the twenty first century, featuring spectacular street dance choreographed by the award-winning Rhimes Lecointe (Associate choreographer for Zoo Nation, and Artistic Director of Boudicea).
With ballads, beats, and backflips, this fresh new musical will be fun for the whole family.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club
Friday 3 May, 7 June, 5 July, 2 August at 8pm
Treat yourself to a laugh at the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club with four top pro comedians to make you LOL!
See comedians off the telly from all the major panel shows and roadshows plus the best of the rest. Previously Jason Manford, John Bishop and Sarah Millican were booked before they hit the big time. So come and see more brilliant comedians! The Grand Theatre reserves the right to change the line-up at any time.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
125 Celebration Open Day Tour
6 May, 11 June, 6 July at 11am, 12 and 1pm
125 years ago, local businessman Thomas Sergenson secured the world’s leading theatre architect, Frank Matcham, to design the magnificent jewel we know today. Now you can join us for our special 125 Celebration Open Day.
Blackpool Grand Theatre has always been in the vanguard of development in theatre: it was the first theatre in Blackpool to be totally electric; it was the first to have a fully cantilevered circle eliminating the need for pillars to give every seat a clear view; and Matcham invented the crash doors that enabled a quick evacuation of the building.
To celebrate this important milestone, our mission is to secure the theatre for the next generation, starting with a campaign to raise £125,000 to repair the storm damage to the dome at the front of the building.
Access all public areas
For our 125th Anniversary we will be holding a limited run of special access days; The 125 Celebration Open Day will be free of charge. Allowing you to wander free around public areas with a special selection of our archive on display highlighting our 125 years, from the original build through to the epic struggle, to the glorious theatre it is today…
Or, book now for one of our thirty-minute tours led by one of our heritage volunteers (£4 p/p). Book early as these will go quickly. We look forward to celebrating our 125 years with you all!
Stand on the raked stage and observe the cantilevered tiers of circles, boxes and pit – and the complete visibility of every seat in this atmospheric house. See the secrets of the great stage and take in Blackpool’s hidden gem, learn about flamboyant architect Frank Matcham and explore the warren of staircases that lead to the stars, dressing rooms and beyond.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Northern Ballet’s Puss in Boots
Saturday 11 May at 2pm and 4pm
Puss in Boots is no ordinary cat. Clever and charming, he takes life in his stride and befriends everyone he meets. The only thing is, he always seems to bring his master, Jack, bad luck.
Join Puss and Jack on their adventure as they meet a flurry of lovable characters, and even come face to face with royalty! It’s the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre. This child friendly performance lasts approximately 40 minutes.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Playreading
Saturday 11 May, 8 June, 13 July, 10 August at 1.30pm
The Grand Theatre Play Reading Group is an excellent way to get involved with the theatre, meet new people and while away your time reading and discussing plays!
Perfect for anyone who relishes reading and engaging in discussion about great titles from some of the world’s leading playwrites.
No experience of play reading is necessary and you don’t even have to join in if you don’t wish. This is an informal and friendly group of people sharing like-minded interests, and the group have read everything from Greek tragedies and Shakespeare, to Oscar Wilde and J. B. Priestly. Jennifer Smethurst, a qualified speech and drama tutor, guides participants through the readings and raises any interesting issues for discussion.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
The Simon and Garfunkel Story
Sunday 12 May at 7.30pm
Direct from a week-long run in London’s West End at the Vaudeville Theatre, a SOLD OUT Worldwide tour and standing ovations at every performance, The Simon and Garfunkel Story is back!
Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this 50th Anniversary Celebration also features a full live band performing all of Simon and Garfunkel’s hits including Mrs Robinson, Cecilia, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound and many more. Get your tickets fast as this is an evening not to be missed!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Friends of The Grand Coffee Morning
16 May, 20 June, 18 July, 15 August at 10.30am
Our Friends of The Grand welcome all to their Friends Coffee Morning. Join us for a get together over coffee and cake. At each Friends Coffee Morning there will be a different guest speaker from either the Theatre or the world of show business.
Due to popularity please BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll
Sunday 19 May at 7.30pm
Marty Wilde, Eden Kane, Mike Berry, The Wildcats, and very special guest Little Miss Sixties Nancy Ann Lee join forces in The Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll Show.
Join us in celebrating Marty Wilde’s 80th birthday! The late fifties and early sixties were without doubt some of the most exciting and important years in the history of music. With the arrival of rock ‘n’ roll, a whole new pop culture was born. Performing their own hits and collaborating live on stage, Marty, Eden and Mike, teen idols of their day, show us how rock ‘n’ roll with its fusion of sound and rhythm shaped the style of music that we listened to then and still do today.
Solid Gold Rock ‘n’ Roll includes hits such as A Teenager In Love, Rubber Ball, Donna, I Don’t Know Why, Well I Ask You, Don’t You Think It’s Time, The Sunshine of Your Smile, Venus In Blue Jeans, Go Away Little Girl, and many, many more!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Hello Again: The Story of Neil Diamond
Friday 24 May at 7.30pm
Evocative imagery, video and narration enhance the magic, as the show takes you on a musical journey through the glittering 50 year career of Neil Diamond.
From The Bang Years to the present day you’ll soon be singing along to all the hits including Sweet Caroline, Cracklin’ Rosie, Forever in Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, Hello Again, Love on the Rocks, America and many more.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Steve Steinman’s Anything For Love
Sunday 26 May at 7.30pm
Steve Steinman brings you his brand-new production, Anything For Love, featuring Meat Loaf’s greatest hits with special guest star Lorraine Crosby, the female lead vocalist on Meat Loaf’s Grammy Award winning song and No 1 hit the world over “I Would Do Anything For Love (But I Won’t Do That)”.
Steve Steinman has come a long way since his appearance as Meat Loaf on ITV’s hit TV show Stars In Their Eyes back in 1993. His journey can only be described as remarkable as for the past 26 years Steve has constantly toured all over the world in the hit show “The Meat Loaf Story”. He has performed in some of the most iconic venues such as Sun City, South Africa and the London Palladium, which Steve rates as one of his all-time achievements.
With incredible stage set live band and production, combined with Steve’s well-known sense of humour and stage presence, along with the amazing Lorraine Crosby the show can only be described as ‘awesome’. The show will feature Meat Loaf’s greatest hits of all time including – Anything For Love – Bat Out Of Hell – Paradise By The Dashboard Light – Took The Words Right Out Of My Mouth – Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad – Dead Ringer For Love and many, many more.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
42nd Street
29 May to 1 June, shows at 7.30pm, plus 2pm matinee on Thurs/Sat
One of showbusiness most classic and beloved tales, 42ND STREET tells the story of Peggy Sawyer, a talented young performer with stars in her eyes who gets her big break on Broadway.
Peggy arrives to New York City from her hometown of Allentown, Pennsylvania, armed with her tap shoes and big dreams. Peggy’s talent catches the eye of legendary Broadway director Julian Marsh, who gives her a spot in the chorus of Pretty Lady, his newest show.
The show however already has a classic Broadway diva, who of course takes an instant dislike to Peggy. When the star of the show is injured during previews, Pretty Lady looks like closure, unless of course a new girl talented lead can be found – someone maybe like Peggy Sawyer!
42ND STREET features the iconic songs 42nd Street, We’re In the Money, I Only Have Eyes For You, Lullaby of Broadway, Dames and Shuffle Off To Buffalo.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
The Summer of Love
Sunday 2 June at 7.30pm
The Summer Of Love is an eclectic explosion of flowers, psychedelia, freedom, peace and love and, of course, timeless music that inspired a generation.
Join us for the greatest 60’s party in town – all the hits from one of music’s most influential eras, including California Dreaming, San Francisco, Turn Turn, Turn, Somebody To Love, Happy Together, Brown Eyed Girl, All Along The Watch and more than 40 classic songs from the summer that changed the world.
With original 1960s film footage, incredible vocalists and a world class live band, this ultimate 60s party will have you dancing in the aisles!
Take a nostalgic journey back to the legendary summer of 1967 in this live celebration of one of the most important cultural events in history.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Legend – The Music of Bob Marley
Friday 7 June at 7.30pm
When you think Reggae, there is only one name that comes to your mind. The legend that was Bob Marley.
Legend, the music of Bob Marley is an unforgettable evening celebrating this musical icon in one fantastic stage show extravaganza. Combining his superb, distinctive vocals with flawless musicianship, and a supremely talented cast.
Together they recreate the timeless hits Could You Be Loved, Is This Love, One Love, No Woman No Cry, Three Little Birds, Jammin’, Buffalo Soldier, Stir It Up, Get Up Stand Up, Exodus, Waiting in Vain, Satisfy My Soul, Iron Lion Zion, I Shot the Sheriff and many more reggae classics.
This two-hour rasta spectacular, showcasing the magic of Marley, will leave audiences on a natural high. Legend – The Music of Bob Marley captures the charisma and culture of an icon gone too soon.
This is a tribute show and is no way affiliated with any original artists/estates/management companies or similar shows.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Rock for Heroes
Sunday 9 June at 7.30pm
Following on from our hugely successful first year of touring the incredible new live music experience Rock For Heroes. Bringing the perfect combination of your favourite rock ‘n’ pop artist across the eras, fundraising in support of Help for Heroes.
We will be collecting for this amazing cause, after every show, our aim is to raise £2.5 million (it’s a long plan!). Performed by a full live rock band and superb singers, complete with brilliant personalities and comedy value this really is a night out unlike any other.
With music from artists such as Dire Straits, Status Quo, Queen, David Bowie, Spandau Ballet, Bryan Adams, Elton John, AC/DC, Whitesnake and so many more. Music, laughter and a rockin’ night out!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Photographic Sessions – Basic
Tuesday 11 & Wednesday 12 June at 10am
Love photography or want to take up a new skill for 2019? Why not join internationally renowned photographer Sean Conboy for a unique Photographic Sessions – Basics at the 125-year-old Grand Theatre, Blackpool.
Conboy’s Photographic Sessions – Basics will cover; Using Manual can help your photography, Using light to your best advantage, Improve your interior photography and, How to look and find pictures in a space. Participants will also get time to roam the auditorium of The Grand and photograph. These sessions are just under 5 hours and will provide you with a variety of skills needed to photograph beautiful structures and interiors. The day will begin with an introductory presentation, where Sean will use his extensive technical experience to advise you how to best capture the perfect shot. You will then have the opportunity to take pictures of The Grand’s Grade II* listed interior using Sean’s top tips with your own camera. Running time 10am until 3pm (lunch is not included).
These sessions are just under 5 hours and will provide you with a variety of skills needed to photograph beautiful structures and interiors. The day will begin with an introductory presentation, where Sean will use his extensive technical experience to advise you how to best capture the perfect shot. You will then have the opportunity to take pictures of The Grand’s Grade II* listed interior using Sean’s top tips with your own camera.
Don’t miss the next opportunity to learn photographic skills directly from internationally renowned photographer Sean Conboy, and capture this beautiful Frank Matcham Grand Theatre with your own camera.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Spymonkey – Cooped
Tues 11 – Fri 14 June at 7.30pm, 2pm matinee on Thursday
To celebrate their 20th anniversary, Spymonkey are offering Blackpool audiences an unmissable opportunity to catch this deliciously demented take on the pulp gothic romance – think Hitchcock’s Rebecca meets The Pink Panther.
Overflowing with brilliant characters, rip-roaring farce and virtuoso physical comedy, this is the show which made them an international comedy sensation, from Just For Laughs Montreal to Sydney Opera House.
A spooky mansion, a plucky young heroine and a handsome English aristocrat. Add a German butler and a Spanish soap star and you’re… COOPED with Spymonkey!
Beautiful, fawn-like Laura du Lay arrives in the heart of darkest Northumberlandshirehampton to take up a post as secretary to the reclusive but devastatingly handsome Forbes Murdston. She has ignored for as long as she can the unsettling rumours that surround her new employer and his ominous manservant Klaus. If only Roger Parchment, the family lawyer, were not so obviously in love with her! Then she could confide in him her darkest fears:
Is Forbes really the killer who lurks in the darkness? Who is the prey he seeks? And will Inspector Detective Judadench solve the mystery before it is too late?! Directed by Cal McCrystal, the comedy genius behind One Man Two Guvnors, A Scouse Nativity and Paddington. Please note this show contains full frontal nudity.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
The Lancashire Hotpots – The Love Tour
Saturday 15 June at 7.30pm
The Lancashire Hotpots are back with a brand-new show and they’re in the mood for love!
Bernard and the boys will be playing all your Hotpot favourites with an emphasis on all the things they really love: meat pies, nights out down the boozer, and of course a Chippy Tea!
It’s going to be an unbeatable night of music and laughs for everyone. If music be the food of love… have yer dinner with the Hotpots!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Walk Right Back
Friday 21 June at 7.30pm
After a phenomenal sell out tour in 2018, Walk Right Back is…BACK! From the Producers of That’ll be the Day, the show tells the story of the most successful duo of all time – The Everly Brothers.
Featuring hits such as Bye Bye Love, All I Have To Do Is Dream and Cathy’s Clown, this unique concert-based musical entwines the wonderful, sad yet glorious story of The Everly Brothers around those trademark “harmonies from heaven”.
Follow the brothers rise to fame, through their decade-long feud to the glorious reunion that gave them back to the world, and back to each other.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
One Night In Dublin
Saturday 22 June at 7.30pm
Spend One Night In Dublin and be transported to ‘Murphys Pub’, where the house band, The Wild Murphys, will entertain you with a selection of great Irish songs from artists such as The Pogues, The Dubliners, The Fureys, and The Saw Doctors to name just a few.
Widely regarded as one of the best Irish bands in the UK, in 2018 The Wild Murphys scooped the title of Best Irish Act (UK) in the LUX Global Entertainment Awards.
One Night In Dublin – Sing along to classics including Galway Girl, Tell Me Ma, Dirty Old Town, The Irish Rover, Brown Eyed Girl, Seven Drunken Nights, Sally MacLennane, When You Were Sweet Sixteen, Whiskey In The Jar, Wild Rover and Molly Malone and many more. A must-see show for all fans of Irish music!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Puttin’ On The Ritz
Thursday 4-6 July at 7.30pm, 2pm matinee on Saturday 6th
Direct from London’s West End comes the All Singing, All Dancing production of Puttin’ On The Ritz. Featuring the music of George Gershwin, Irving Berlin & Cole Porter.
Welcome to Puttin’ on the Ritz, the spectacular stage production that features the most famous songs of the Golden Age of Hollywood – live on stage.
This dazzling production features spectacular singers and wonderful dancers direct from London’s West End, together with breathtaking costumes and stunning musical arrangements.
Let us take you back in time, to an era when Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly were the Kings of the silver screen. Let us entertain you with the classic songs of George Gershwin, Irvin Berlin and Cole Porter. Puttin on the Ritz is the all singing all dancing theatrical experience that brings the Golden Age of Hollywood back to the stage.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
The Magic of Motown
Sunday 7 July at 7.30pm
The Magic of Motown celebrates the sound of a generation.
Music fans are invited to the biggest party of the year as the unstoppable Magic of Motown show steams into town! Seen by over a million people, it’s no surprise that the show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history.
Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience.
Celebrate the sound of a generation as the timeless music of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Supremes, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Jackson 5, Smokey Robinson and more, are sensationally recreated for you by an exceptionally talented cast and band.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
Friday 12-14 July, shows at 10.30am, 1.30 and 4.30pm
The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by author/illustrator Eric Carle has delighted generations of readers since it was first published in 1969 selling more than 43 million copies worldwide.
Eric’s well-known books captivated readers with his iconic colourful hand-painted tissue paper collage illustrations and distinctively simple stories, introducing generations of children to a bigger, brighter world – and to their first experience of reading itself.
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets, faithfully adapting four of Eric Carle’s stories, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Lonely Firefly and of course, the star of the show celebrating its 50th Birthday in 2019 The Very Hungry Caterpillar.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Thriller Live
Monday 15-17 July, shows at 7.30pm and 2.30pm matinee on Weds 17th
Direct from London’s West End where it is now in its record breaking 11th year, Thriller Live is a spectacular concert created to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer.
Experience over two hours of non-stop hits from pop to rock, soul to disco as the cast pay homage to Jackson’s legendary live performances and innovative dance moves executed with flair, precision and passion, this is a show that you will never forget.
Expect your favourite songs delivered by an exceptionally talented cast and band, including: I Want You Back, ABC, Can You Feel It, Off The Wall, The Way You Make Me Feel, Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, Dirty Diana, Bad, Rock With You, They Don’t Care About Us, Dangerous and Thriller plus many more!
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap
Monday 22-27 July, shows at 7.30pm and 2pm matinee on Thurs/Sat
Discover why Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept people guessing for so long, becoming the longest running show of any kind in the history of theatre.
The scene is set when a group of people gathered in the country house cut off by the snow discover, to their horror, that there is a murderer in their midst. Who can it be?
One by one the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerve-shredding moment the identity and the motive are finally revealed.
Experience shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Around the World in 80s Days
Shows at 2pm and 7.30pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 31 July – 31 August!
Blackpool Grand Productions Limited presents Around The World in 80s Days. Travel with us on a musical adventure! The WORLD PREMIERE of one of the greatest adventure stories ever written with an exciting 80s musical twist…
Join the mysterious and fabulously wealthy British gentleman Phileas Fogg, as he accepts a bet for half his fortune to prove it really is possible to travel around the world in eighty days. Fogg and his valet set off on a thrilling race against time – outwitting dastardly villains, escaping perilous locales and finding themselves in hilarious situations in this high-octane comedy musical – all mixed with your favourite chart hits from the 1980s!
The nations favourite decade of big shoulder pads and even bigger hair collides with one of greatest adapted tales of all time, in this brand-new action and comedy packed show that will keep an audience of all ages captivated. Based on Jules Verne’s acclaimed novel. Written and Directed by Ian McFarlane
In celebration of its 125th Anniversary Blackpool’s Grand Theatre has launched its own brand new production company – Blackpool Grand Productions Ltd. This is the first time The Grand will produce its own Summer Show under this production company.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Steve Royle’s Comedy Chaos for Kids
6-28 August. Shows at 7pm, weekly on Tuesday and Wednesday
Steve Royle’s Comedy Chaos For Kids includes non-stop fun for the whole family, comedy, magic, puppets and some very special surprises.
Blackpool’s Grand Theatre has teamed up with Pantomime Veteran and BBC Radio Lancashire star Steve Royle and Special Guest Magician Russ Brown to create the theatre’s first dedicated Summer Show for all the Family!
Royle, who is a veteran 16-year performer in Pantomime at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre, has entertained and given belly-laughs to over 50,000 people each year. In addition, he has supported both Peter Kay and Dave Spikey on tour and was voted ‘Entertainer of the Year’ at the Red Rose Awards.
Russ Brown will be joining Royle on stage. He was the resident children’s entertainer at the world-famous Blackpool Tower for over ten years before leaving to take up residency in his own venue at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. 2009 saw Russ Brown receive the coveted Ken Dodd Comedy Award.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys
Monday 26 August at 7.30pm
With more than 6500 performances in 21 countries under their belt in their 30 years on the road, King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys are more than just the world’s greatest jump, jive and swing band – they’re an institution!
In that time they have opened shows for B.B. King, Cab Calloway and His Orchestra, Ray Charles, and toured with the real Blues Brothers Band – the one from the movie. They’ve played on 36 radio shows and made 73 television appearances, including several on Blue Peter, The Teletubbies, as well as the Paradise Club series where they were the house band. They also featured on Challenge Anneka, The Gadget Show and on a prime time National Lottery advertisement – not to mention accompanying John Barrowman in a rendition of I Get A Kick Out Of You on Live And Kicking.
Rough, tough and always rocking, King Pleasure & The Biscuit Boys have appeared at festivals, in concert and at clubs throughout the UK and Europe – and they still play the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival, where they have headlined for an unprecedented 14 years.
BOOK YOUR TICKETS – Call the Box Office on 01253 290 190 (please mention you saw it on Visit Fylde Coast!) or visit the website
Reduced Price Public Transport when you Visit The Grand
Blackpool’s Grand Theatre welcomes over 130,000 people a year through its doors. Over 20% of these theatre-goers use public transport. So Blackpool Grand have formed a working partnership with Blackpool Transport to encourage even more theatre goers to travel on local public transport.
Adults can travel to and from the theatre for just £3 and children at £1, saving over 40%.
The travel ticket is simple to add on to theatre tickets when booking your show. In addition, the theatre offers a dedicated webpage where you can order weekly and monthly travel tickets direct to your phone App.
Take advantage of this new, highly-discounted return travel ticket (for adults and children) giving easy access and reduced cost.Using public transport has huge benefits to the community, both economic and health wise, and helps to reduce local road congestion.
How can you help The Grand?
There are lots of ways to make a difference:
– Come to the theatre! The more people who buy tickets and see shows, the more profitable we become. The more profit that we make the better we can be. Simple!
– Make a one-off donation at the website
– Set up a regular donation, you could look at the Charity Aid Foundation (CAF)’s Long-Term Giving. They offer tailored philanthropy services, knowledge and expertise, to help you fulfil your charitable ambitions. They work with over 2,000 high net worth individuals in a variety of ways, from providing valuable administration of their charitable giving through to expert advice on a long term giving strategy.
– Donate when you shop online with easyfundraising. Shop for products from thousands of leading online retailers; use their price comparison tool to ensure you get the best price and even save money by using the exclusive offers and deals available. A percentage of everyday and annual purchases you make (like Travelodge, Thomas Cook, M&S, John Lewis, Aviva, AA, RAC, Sainsbury’s ASDA, Tesco and Ocado) will be donated to charity. easyfundraising have over 3,000 shops and sites that give them a commission for your purchase. They then turn that into a donation and give it to the Grand Theatre. Easy!
– Search online with Everyclick.com – a new UK search engine which donates 50% of its gross revenue to charity. Just use it instead of Google to search online and clicking on one of the results. Its founders hope to pass on to charity some of the £3.9 billion of global web search revenues that are predicted to be generated this year. Just select The Grand as your chosen charity.
– Charity credit cards and energy supplies – ask your energy suppliers or credit card companies if you can donate or if they donate on your behalf, like charitably donating your Cashback offer.
Grand Returns to its Original Footprint – for the first time in more than 40 years
The Friends of The Grand today announced that, after thirty-five years of fundraising, they have, at last, achieved their long-held ambition to return the Grand Theatre to its original architectural footprint.
When Frank Matcham, the famous Victorian theatre designer, was commissioned to create the Grand Theatre in 1893 its owner, Thomas Sergenson, briefed him to incorporate a number of small shops on Church Street into the design.
However, back in 1981, when the Friends purchased the Grade II* listed building from the then owners, EMI, these units were not included in the sale. Ever since, the Friends have been saving in a special fund for the day when it might be possible to buy them.
Well, that day has come and John Buck, Chairman of the Friends of the Grand said ‘it’s like a dream come true. We’ve been saving for this day for years; selling raffle tickets, lapel badges, holding coffee mornings and, even as recently as April we received a bequest from our long-serving Treasurer, Alan Sears, who sadly died earlier this year. It came with the specific instruction that it should only be spent of the purchase of the shops. Alan will be smiling down on us this day’.
John, who is now in his seventies, was one of the original group who raised the money to save the theatre from demolition in 1973. He, along with other passionate and dedicated Friends, cleaned, repaired and painted in their spare time to get the building back on its feet ready for its reopening and dedication from HRH The Prince of Wales in 1981.
‘We were invited to buy the shops back in the 1990s’ remembers John, ‘but, back then, the owners wanted more than a million pounds for them and we thought we’d never be able to raise that much. And we were right! Obviously, times have changed, and, thankfully, we’ve been able raise enough to buy them for less than half that price’.
When the purchase is complete, the deeds of the properties will be donated to the Grand Theatre Trust, the heritage conservation charity which owns and cares for this beautiful historic building.
Roger Lloyd Jones, Chairman of the Trust said ‘there are many, many people who have made this wonderful purchase possible and I would like to thank everyone who has helped. The theatre is now 122 years old and, as you can imagine, needs constant care and attention. We hope the shops will prove an asset to the theatre, providing a small but much-needed rental income to be re-invested in the upkeep of this precious architectural gem’.
The Friends of the Grand is a registered Charity.
Today, the Friends of the Grand still volunteer their services as Front of House staff, envelope-stuffers and runners of the theatre’s coffee stall. Last year, they provided 13,174 hours of voluntary service for the theatre at a value of £88,000.
Blackpool is the home of entertainment and presiding over it is the ‘Grand’ Old Lady.
From opera, ballet and Shakespeare to variety, musicals and comedy giants, The Grand Theatre caters for every age, pocket and personality.
When you enter the Victorian auditorium of the Blackpool Grand Theatre you will understand what people mean by ‘the glorious Grand’. This Frank Matcham designed masterpiece offers ornate, gilded plasterwork, baroque ceiling, cavorting cherubs and cantilevered balconies allowing every seat a clear view of the stage.
125 Glorious Years!
The Grade II* listed Grand Theatre celebrates its 125th Birthday in 2019. It first opened its doors on 23 July 1894, and still remains as one of the few surviving examples of the work of Frank Matcham.
The Grand Theatre has hosted a multitude of stars since its opening, from Lily Langtree to Michael Macintyre, Gracie Fields to Ken Dodd, Arthur Askey to Lee Evans…and the list goes on!
Photo: Sean Conboy
It’s attracted the very best in award-winning touring companies, including The National Theatre, English Touring Theatre, The Royal Shakespeare Company, Opera and Ballet International and the Russian State Ballet.
As well as presenting a programme of quality drama, comedy, dance and children’s theatre, The Grand Theatre plays host to the outstanding talents of local performers from groups across Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde.
By the early 1960s theatres across Britain were closing due to loss of audience to television and in July 1972 the then owners, the Tower Company, applied for permission to demolish it. In its place they proposed to build a department store. However, by then, following an application to the Department of the Environment, the theatre had been listed as a Grade II* building and there had to be a full public enquiry.
Early in 1973 the Friends of the Grand Theatre was formed and after legal and financial wrangling, they, together with EMI and the local council, put together a deal involving leasing the theatre for £10,000 per annum and final purchase for £250,000.
You can find out more about the history of this amazing building here
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