BLACKPOOL GRAND SHINES BRIGHT
The Grand was thrilled to announce the completion of an almost year-long restoration and repair project for the much-loved Blackpool building in March thanks to a share of £24.2 million through Arts Council England’s Capital Investment Programme.
The Grand was awarded £450,000 from the Arts Council to repair the Grade II* listed building’s stonework, replace and repoint damaged brickwork, restore the Victorian iron rainwater goods, and replace large areas of slate and lead on the two acres of roof. This now ensures the safety of the building and allows audiences and visitors to access parts of the theatre which have previously been inaccessible for some years.
Work commenced on The Grand in July 2024 , with the building being swathed in scaffolding until February of this year to allow the conservation team access to complete the renovations and install
new window frames at the rear of the Gallery, clean the stonework and gild the carved stone Grand Theatre letters.
The Arts Council award marks the first phase of funding towards a £15 million Capital Development Plan that will futureproof the theatre, enrich Church Street and improve the experience of customers and visiting companies alike.
Blackpool Grand Theatre Chief Executive, Adam Knight, said: “We are hugely grateful to Arts Council England for this significant and very timely investment in our heritage building, which has been struggling to cope with the impact of climate change and recent Irish Sea storms. The results of these specialist restoration works are terrific and make a demonstrable positive contribution to the revitalisation of the town centre. The capital investment has also realised a long-term ambition to recreate the much missed illuminated “GRAND” sign and return the theatre’s famous dome and iconic pineapple finial to their former glory. The Arts Council’s £450k support has also enabled us
to use as match funds the generous donations given by the community and marks the beginning of the journey to fully restore Frank Matcham’s masterpiece!”
The Capital Investment Programme supports the Arts Council’s mission to ensure communities across the country have an infrastructure where creativity for everyone can thrive.
HAVE A SENSATIONAL SUNNY AFTERNOON WITH THE KINKS!
Come Dancing with the multi-award-winning hit musical SUNNY AFTERNOON and celebrate the raw energy, passion and timeless sound of The Kinks at Blackpool Grand Tuesday 28 April to Saturday 02 May 2026
This smash-hit stage spectacular charts the euphoric highs and agonising lows of one of Britain’s most iconic bands, telling their sensational story through an incredible back catalogue of chart-toppers, including You Really Got Me, Lola and All Day and All of the Night.
The multi Olivier Award-winning hit musical Sunny Afternoon from Sonia Friedman Productions and ATG Productions is set against the backdrop of Britain on the cusp of the rebellious '60s and is an exhilarating celebration of the music, the life and the band that changed it all.
The Kinks are recognised as one of the most important and influential British rock groups of all time. They were formed in Muswell Hill, North by brothers Ray and Dave Davies alongside Pete Quaife and Mick Avory. From their explosive beginnings as part of the British Beat movement to forays into concept albums, stadium rock and acoustic balladeering; The Kinks have left a powerful legacy of classic songs from Waterloo Sunset to Days, many of which form the building blocks of popular music as we know it today. In
1990, all four original members were inducted into the prestigious American Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame and the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005
Ray Davies, said of the new Sunny Afternoon tour: “In these times of political uncertainties, it is a relief to know that Sunny Afternoon is on the horizon to lift our spirits”.
Best New Musical and Outstanding Achievement in Music for Ray Davies.
Whether you're a die-hard Dedicated Follower of Fashion or just love a great night out, it’s time to swing to the Box Office to book your tickets for this musical masterpiece packed with 60s swagger.
CARLOS ACOSTA’S NUTCRACKER IN HAVANA
Feel the festive heat this November as Carlos Acosta’s Nutcracker in Havana returns to the Blackpool Grand Theatre —back by overwhelming demand for a strictly limited run from Wednesday, 12 to Saturday, 15 November. Tickets from just £15
After dazzling audiences on a sold-out premiere tour, this bold and breathtaking reimagining of the beloved Christmas classic pirouettes back into the spotlight with even more Cuban flair, festive sparkle, and jaw-dropping talent.
International ballet superstar Carlos Acosta CBE, whose new choreography pulses with passion and pride is at the helm of this sizzling spectacle. Featuring more than 20 phenomenal dancers
from his critically acclaimed Cuban company, Acosta Danza, this is The Nutcracker as you’ve never seen it before - infused with Caribbean rhythms, stunning visuals, and a heart that beats to the rhythm of Havana.
The production bursts with Cuban colour and culture, blending classical ballet with folkloric flair and contemporary movement. Acosta’s vision is powered by a newly commissioned and exuberantly Cuban reinterpretation of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, arranged by celebrated Cuban composer Pepe Gavilondo. Whether you’re a die-hard dance devotee or new to ballet entirely, this production offers something magical for everyone—joy, beauty, spectacle, and a story that warms the heart.
12 to Saturday 15 November.
A Cuban take on the
Carlos Acosta's Nutcracker in Havana with Acosta Danza. Wednesday
favourite festive classic explodes onto the Blackpool Grand Stage.
THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION
The searing stage adaptation of The Shawshank Redemption will break out into Blackpool Grand Theatre this September to bring an unforgettable night of drama, hope and redemption.
Bill Kenwright Ltd will present the must-see stage production of Stephen King’s legendary short story from Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 September with full casting to be announced.
“Fear will hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.” - The Shawshank Redemption
Based on Stephen King’s gripping 1982 novella, Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, this
GARY CLARKE
RETURNS WITH EXCITING NEW DANCE
Gary Clarke Company’s explosive new dance work DETENTION is set to completely captivate audiences when it makes a welcome stop at The Grand on Wednesday 08 and Thursday 09 October as part of a national tour.
Blackpool Grand is also proud to be one of the co-commissioners of what is set to be a groundbreaking new piece of work following on from Clarke’s highly acclaimed WASTELAND and award-winning COAL.
Celebrated choreographer Gary Clarke says of his powerful new piece: “DETENTION is the third and final part of a trilogy of dance theatre works following the multi-award winning COAL and critically acclaimed WASTELAND. What unites this trilogy is 1980s Britain - a time when our country was governed by Margaret Thatcher and how different marginalised communities fought for their human rights, their livelihoods and their existence.”
The Gary Clarke Company also launched a thrilling photography exhibition at Blackpool Grand Theatre in February by award-winning photographer David Severn as part of the Pride in Motion artistic exchange project in collaboration with The Grand and members of Blackpool’s vibrant and historic LGBT+ community. The powerfully poignant opening event also showcased a stunning live performance piece created in collaboration with Artistic Director Gary Clarke.
This two-year multi-layered project is ‘a reflection, a progression and an opportunity to celebrate a once silenced community’ with participants creating iconic images celebrating their own queer identities. The stunning Pride in Motion images were then exhibited daily at Blackpool Grand to countless captivated viewers before moving to Blackpool School of Arts exhibition space.
DETENTION explores the impact of SECTION 28: legislation from Margaret Thatcher's Conservative Government in 1988, which 'prohibited the promotion of homosexuality', forcing people from the LGBT+ community into a place of secrecy, fear and shame at a time when the country was in industrial turmoil and the gay community was being ravaged by the onslaught of AIDS.
Blackpool Grand Theatre Chief Executive and CoCommissioner of the piece, Adam Knight, said: “It is with enormous pride that Blackpool Grand Theatre collaborated with the internationally renowned artists Gary Clarke and David Severn to co-create with members of Blackpool’s LGBTQ+ community, this thrilling and impactful response to Gary’s forthcoming work DETENTION".
Buckle up for a high-octane trip back to Rydell High as Blackpool Grand Theatre rolls out the pink carpet for a sizzling new co-production of GREASE THE MUSICAL!
This exciting new co-production from Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre perfectly captures the idealism of the 1950s and its rock ‘n’ roll rebellion dreams and desires, with plenty of iconic songs, high-energy dance routines and cool costumes along the way. Go Greased Lightnin’ and follow the whirlwind romance between sweet new girl Sandy Dumbrowski and popular cool guy Danny Zuko who find their summer lovin’ challenged by the pressures of teenage life at Rydell High School.
Grease The Musical (Wednesday 04 to Saturday 14 June) will star a vibrant cast of actor musicians (to be announced) that will perfectly capture the essence of teenage exuberance, rebellion and young love, to tell this thrilling new version of the timeless classic with grit and verve.
We caught up with Grease The Musical Choreographer Kally Lloyd-Jones and Costume Designer Julie Carlin to ask them some quick questions about all the show-stopping dance numbers and to get the inside scoop on bringing Rydell High’s wardrobe back to life!
Kally Lloyd-Jones Grease
Choreographer
Grease The Musical is known for its high-energy choreography and classic rock ’n’ roll numbers. What creative opportunities and challenges have you encountered while planning this exciting new co-production?
‘Firstly, I want to say that it’s so much fun working on this show. The music so completely wants to be danced to and that’s very infectious. I suppose I see the challenges and opportunities as the same thing. It's about how best to use the space and the set, and working with the actor musicians in a way that really adds to the excitement and youthfulness of the show. Also, how to tap into the recognition of Grease while still adding something fresh.’
How have you approached blending the classic 1950s dance styles with fresh, innovative choreography to make this production of Grease stand out?
‘Following the lead of our director Sam Hardie, I really want to bring a sense of movement and momentum to the choreography to underpin the idea that these young people are figuring themselves out as they move towards adulthood. I have tried to reference some of the iconic moments and to really showcase both the playfulness and individuality of the characters, as well as their sense of being part of a tribe.’
How will you ensure the cast maintain their stamina and precision throughout the run with such demanding choreography?
‘My experience is that these gifted performers are very aware of their own capacities and how they need to look after their individual needs. Doing the show is the best way to maintain stamina because the body learns to pace itself and where to find moments of rest and when to pull out the stops. But of course, they will have daily warm-ups and notes, and the dance captain will keep a close eye on the precision to make sure the show always looks its best.’
Have you incorporated any regional or personal influences into the choreography to give this production a unique twist?
‘There are no regional influences as such, but I guess my personal influences are there consciously or not because I bring myself to the process. My own influences are very diverse, and I think you will see that while still believing you are immersed in the 1950s.’
Julie Carlin Grease Costume Designer
How are you balancing the iconic 1950s style with fresh, unique costume elements to make this co-production stand out from previous versions of Grease?
"Some audience members will, of course, be expecting to see certain iconic costumes from the film. But any new production will also generate new ideas and so the costumes for Grease will combine exciting new ideas and concepts with more traditional outfits. I am really looking forward to bringing a bit of sparkle and lots of fun to this production."
Have there been any particular challenges in designing costumes that need to transition seamlessly between high-energy dance numbers and dramatic moments?
"I am working closely with the director and choreographer to talk over any transitions and challenges of the show. All costumes need to be functional and allow the actors to perform while following the artistic vision and pleasing to the audience."
If you could choose one costume from the show that best represents the spirit of this production, which one would it be and why?
‘It has to be the pink jackets of course! These are such an iconic symbol of the show that everyone recognises.’
SIX SENSATIONAL NEW SHOWS
A Thing of Beauty
Rosie Kay presents a double bill of exhilarating new dance: Fantasia and Adult Female Dancer.
Sat 21 Jun
REMEMBER THE DAY THE MUSIC DIED
TUESDAY 03 FEBRUARY 2026 - That’ll Be The Day that Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story will Rave On back to Blackpool Grand Theatre in a special commemoration of the spec-tacular rock and roll star.
The most successful rock ‘n’ roll musical of all time is coming back to Blackpool Grand Theatre and will open on the anniversary of The Day The Music Died…
RUM by Joe Mellalieu
A darkly humorous play that wrestles with masculinity, mental health and addiction in the construction trade.
Tue 03 Jun
Lost in Music
Get on the groove train to Boogie Wonderland for an electrifying journey through the sensational 70s.
Thu 18 Sep
Sky Full of Stars
Whether you’re a lifelong Coldplay fan or just looking for an unforgettable night out, this show delivers Coldplay’s greatest hits.
Sat 22 Nov
Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badgers Drift
An evening in England’s deadliest county as Caroline Graham’s crime chiller makes its thrilling stage debut.
Tue 10 - Sat 14 Feb 2026
The Eternal Shame of Sue Perkins
You may know this TV favourite from Bake-Off, Taskmaster, Just A Minute, or the Sue that gives you travel envy – but stand-up Sue Perkins is full of surprises.
Sunday 15 March 2026
Loved by critics and audiences alike, Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story (Tuesday 03 to Saturday 07 February 2026) tells the enduring story of the musical icon’s meteoric rise from his Southern rockabilly beginnings to international stardom. In just 18 short months, the bespectacled boy from Lubbock, Texas, revolutionised the face of contemporary music and would influence everyone from The Beatles to Bruce Springsteen and The Rolling Stones. His legendary final performance took place at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, the night before his tragic and untimely death on 3 February 1959, at the age of just 22. This then famously became known as ‘the Day the Music Died’ as American singer/ songwriter Don McLean called it in his song American Pie.
This magnificent multi award-winning West End show features two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, with over 20 of Buddy Holly’s biggest hits - including the timeless classics That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Everyday and Rave On. Add to that, the Big Bopper’s Chantilly Lace, Ritchie Valens’ La Bamba, and rip-roaring versions of Shout, Johnny B. Goode and many,
many more performed by a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians and this show is just Peggy Sue-perb!
Holly’s music was sophisticated for its day, including the use of instruments considered novel for rock & roll, such as the celesta (heard on Everyday). Many of his songs also feature a unique vocal ‘hiccup’ technique, a clipped ‘uh’ sound used to emphasise certain words in any given song, especially the rockers. For example, in the start of Rave On Buddy sings: “We-UH-ell, the little things you say and do, make me want to be with you-UH-ou...”
In March of 1958, Buddy Holly and the Crickets toured the UK and in the audience were two teenagers named John Lennon and Paul McCartney, who later cited Holly as a primary influence (the band’s name, The Beatles, was later chosen partly in homage to Holly’s Crickets).
Following the February 2 performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, the performers and their road crew drew straws to decide who would fly in the airplane, and who would ride in the unheated tour bus. The winners were Holly, Valens and Richardson. The four-passenger Beechcraft Bonanza took off into a blinding snowstorm and crashed into Albert Juhl’s cornfield several miles after take-off at 1 05am. The crash killed Holly, Valens, Richardson, and pilot Roger Peterson, leaving Holly’s pregnant bride, Maria Elena Holly, a widow (she would miscarry soon after). Funeral services were held at the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas, and Buddy Holly was interred in the City of Lubbock Cemetery.
The tragic plane crash inspired singer Don McLean’s popular 1971 ballad American Pie, and immortalised February 3 as The Day The Music Died. Contrary to popular myth, American Pie was not the name of the ill-fated airplane.
Buddy Holly has inspired a whole generation of music fans and remains an original music phenomenon.
Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story has been seen by over 22 million theatregoers since it first opened in London’s West End in 1989
THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING SHOW !
Blackpool Grand is raising the curtain on the power of musical theatre, showing how smash-hit musicals like Dear Evan Hansen don’t just entertain - they can inspire, heal and bring communities together!
Theatre musicals have a wonderfully unique way of telling stories that resonate deeply with audiences. They can take some of life’s biggest challenges and turn them into soaring melodies and unforgettable moments that inspire and help change lives. And when it comes to celebrating storytelling for resilience, few shows hit home quite like Dear Evan Hansen (Tuesday 20 to Saturday 24 May).
This heart-wrenching yet uplifting musical explores the crucially important themes of mental health, belonging and self-acceptance - all through an incredible soundtrack that has brought audiences to tears and cheers worldwide. Its iconic number You Will Be Found has become an anthem of hope, reminding us all that even in the darkest moments, we are never truly alone.
TV audiences enjoyed a small taste of Dear Evan Hansen’s power on the BBC’s recent Big Night of The Musicals as they were wowed by a cast performance of You Will Be Found. Make Today A Good Day and catch up now on BBC iPlayer and then book your tickets to experience the live phenomenon for yourself before all the tickets Disappear!
Musicals like Dear Evan Hansen don’t just entertain - they spark conversations, build empathy and create lasting connections between people. Theatre has always been more than just entertainment – it’s a space for reflection, dialogue and growth. Through the voices of performers and playwrights, we can all explore the struggles and triumphs that shape our world, encouraging empathy and connection across generations.
THE GRAND’S CINDERELLA DAZZLES
Steve Royle reigned supreme at UK Panto Awards ‘Best Comic’!
It was a phenomenal moment in the history of pantomime at Blackpool Grand Theatre as everyone’s favourite panto star and stand-up sensation STEVE ROYLE was awarded BEST COMIC at the UK Pantomime Awards! Oh yes it was!!!
This well-deserved recognition is a testament to Steve’s dedication to his comedy craft and his relentless pursuit of excellence, and also to the passion, creativity and world-class talent of the whole team behind the annual Grand Theatre Christmas production presented by UK Productions.
Steve Royle said: “I’m genuinely overwhelmed and deeply honoured to receive the award for Best Comic. Pantomime has always held a special place in my heart — it’s pure joy, shared laughter, and the kind of magic that brings generations together. To be recognised for doing something I love so much is incredibly humbling. This award isn’t just mine - it belongs to everyone who makes the magic happen. The cast, the incredible creative
team, our backstage crew, wardrobe, marketing, front of house and everyone who works so hard - often behind the scenes - to create something truly unforgettable. And to the audiences... thank you for coming back year after year, for laughing with me, shouting back at me and letting me be a part of your Christmas traditions. I can't wait to return to the Grand for Beauty and the Beast this year - let’s make more memories, laughter, and magic together."
The UK Pantomime Association runs the UK Pantomime Awards and celebrates the very best that panto-land brings to delighted audiences across the country over Christmas.
And now’s the time to book for this year’s pantomime! Last year was award-winning, and this year will be unmissable… Make everyone’s festive dreams come true and book now for the magical tale of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST - Friday 05 December 2025 to Sunday 04 January 2026
LAUGHS AT GRAND
SECRETS, SCANDALS & SUDDEN DEATH: MIDSOMER MURDERS LIVE!
Prepare for a night of murder, mystery, and mayhem as one of Britain’s most iconic crime dramas makes its long-awaited theatrical debut.
Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift will take centre stage at the Blackpool Grand Theatre from Tuesday 10 to Saturday 14 February, bringing with it all the eccentric charm, gripping suspense, and chilling intrigue that fans of the beloved television series have come to adore.
Based on Caroline Graham’s bestselling novel and the pilot episode that launched the award-winning ITV series, this stage adaptation promises a thrilling journey into the deceptively tranquil village of Badger’s Drift—where nothing is quite as idyllic as it seems.
With eccentric locals, unexpected twists, and a jaw-dropping finale, this classic whodunnit delivers the perfect cocktail of British countryside charm and nail-biting suspense. Whether you're a long-time devotee or a newcomer to the world of Midsomer, this theatrical premiere offers a fresh and compelling way to experience the story that started it all.
Adapted and directed by acclaimed theatre-maker Guy Unsworth, this gripping production captures the heart and soul of both the original novel and the TV phenomenon while breathing new life into the chilling narrative for the stage. The starstudded cast will be revealed soon - but with its razor-sharp script, richly drawn characters, and haunting atmosphere, this is already shaping up to be one of the mustsee productions of the season.
Dust off your magnifying glass, book your tickets, and prepare for a night in England’s deadliest county…
Almost 30 years after its last performance, London City Ballet - which once counted Princess Diana among its most ardent supporters - is triumphantly returning to Blackpool Grand Theatre this July as it headlines the town’s new Capital of Dance Festival.
London City Ballet presents the best of British ballet and contemporary dance, paying homage to the company’s early beginnings, shining a bright light on a new legacy under the direction of Christopher Marney who describes London City Ballet’s rich history as being “too important to be forgotten”. Former artistic director of the Joffrey Ballet Studio Company in Chicago, Marney says: “It was the first company I saw and it ignited my passion for theatre and ballet.”
Chief Executive of Blackpool Grand, Adam Knight, said: “As soon as I heard that London City Ballet were to reform under the dynamic leadership of Christopher Marney, I knew that audiences in Blackpool deserved the opportunity to see the company return to The Grand’s stage”. Harold King set up the original company in 1978 with a base at Sadler's Wells and a touring programme which went around the country. It was the first ballet company that Princess Diana gave her patronage to, and she supported it from 1983 to 1996 - "she really believed this was a company doing good," Marney says.
And, with a Critics’ Circle nomination in the 2025 National Dance Awards as Best Independent Company, doing good the company surely is!
Be sure to catch London City Ballet’s Momentum at Blackpool Grand Theatre on Saturday 12 July at 7.30pm
K 2 CO’s A Thing of Beauty
Sat 21 Jun
London City Ballet – Momentum
Sat 12 Jul
Movies and Musicals
Sun 20 Jul
Gary Clarke Company – Detention
Wed 08 & Thu 09 Oct
Swan Lake
Sun 12 Oct
Nutcracker in Havana
Wed 12 - Sat 15 Nov
*London City Ballet
HAMLET TRAVELS TO THE GRAND
The world-renowned Royal Shakespeare Company will make a welcome return to Blackpool Grand Theatre in 2026 with William Shakespeare’s HAMLET (Tuesday 24 to Saturday 28 March 2026)
This epic family drama of deceit and murder is directed by the multi award-winning Rupert Goold (Dear England, King Charles III) and will tour the UK after opening this year in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon to rave reviews. Full casting for the UK 2026 tour is yet to be announced.
Hamlet is the Prince of Denmark. After the death of Hamlet’s father, his mother marries his Uncle Claudius at a less then decent interval and Claudius takes the throne for himself. But grief can play tricks on the mind, even conjure ghosts. When Hamlet’s dead father appears to him one night he signals murder, not madness. Seeking vengeance, he wants Hamlet to kill Claudius, setting off a tragic chain of events.
As Hamlet pulls at the threads of his not-sohappy new family, he unravels a web of deceit and immorality that leads to the ultimate crisis of conscience.
‘To be, or not to be, that is the question’ - Hamlet
This must-see new production follows a critically acclaimed run in Stratford-upon-Avon nd will bring a ‘scintillating new staging’ (Financial Times) of Shakespeare’s famous revenge drama to thrill audiences right across the country.
TO
BE , OR NOT TO BE ,
THAT
IS THE QUESTION . (HAMLET, ACT 3 SCENE 1)
WHO’S THAT IN HAMLET?:
Are you new to Hamlet? Here’s a quick breakdown of all the characters from Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy:
Hamlet is the son of Gertrude and Old Hamlet. His father has just died, and his uncle Claudius has become king.
Polonius is a counsellor to the new king and queen. He is Ophelia and Laertes’ father.
Ophelia is Polonius’ daughter and Laertes’ sister. She has been in a relationship with Hamlet.
Claudius is the newly crowned King of Denmark and husband to Gertrude. He is Hamlet’s uncle.
Gertrude is Hamlet’s mother and the queen. She married Claudius shortly after her husband died.
Old Hamlet is the previous King of Denmark and Hamlet’s father. He has recently died but visits Hamlet as a ghost during the play.
Laertes is the only son of Polonius and brother of Ophelia. He leaves Denmark to study in Paris.
Horatio is an old and trusted friend of Hamlet’s. They met as students in Wittenberg.
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are childhood friends of Hamlet. Claudius employs them to spy on Hamlet.
Fortinbras is the Prince of Norway. He wishes to avenge his father’s death by invading Denmark.
ACCESSIBILITY AT BLACKPOOL GRAND THEATRE
At Blackpool Grand Theatre, accessibility is at the heart of every performance. The venue is committed to ensuring that all guests have a welcoming and inclusive experience from the moment they arrive.
FAMILY FAVOURITES
There’s a whole load of wild family adventures to explore at The Grand this year, and they’re all jam-packed with lots of fun and laughter for the whole gang!
Here’s just a few of the highlights:
The theatre is proudly partnered with Nimbus Disability and accepts the Access Card, which makes it easier for disabled guests to communicate their access needs. Access Card holders can use their card when booking tickets, and relevant symbols will be recognised by the Box Office to provide appropriate support, including free essential companion tickets where applicable.
The Grand is also an active participant in the Ramps on the Moon initiative, championing better representation and accessibility for D/deaf and disabled people across the arts.
The theatre features step-free access to the main foyer, dedicated wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for those with visual or hearing impairments. For full details or to discuss specific requirements, guests are encouraged to contact the Box Office or visit the theatre’s website.
TRIPLE-AWARD WINNER!
Blackpool Grand Theatre’s groundbreaking Story Led Resilience Programme has won a trio of top industry awards for its revolutionary theatre-arts based community project initiative.
The pioneering programme is top of the class after recently scooping The Hearts & Minds Award at the Northern Cultural Education Awards; the UK Theatre Award for Excellence in Arts Education, and The Arts and Culture Award at the Children & Young People Now awards!
The innovative and internationally recognised Story Led Resilience Programme from the theatre’s Creative Learning Team was developed using stories presented on The Grand Theatre’s stage to identify, explore and define resilience in young people, and has been described at the awards ceremonies as “a remarkable and unique initiative, using Arts Education to strengthen resilience and build confidence”.
The award-winning work will continue to support young people across the whole of the community on this year’s Summer Youth Musical Production - an enchanting musical adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s best-selling classic The Wind in the Willows (Thursday 14 to Sunday 17 August) Following an outstanding production of Bugsy Malone the Musical in 2024 (the theatre’s first ever Summer School).
PIG HEART BOY | WORLD BOOK DAY
The Grand celebrated this year’s World Book Day by taking an extra special trip to Blackpool Central Library last month to bring Malorie Blackman’s much-loved novel PIG HEART BOY to life for some lucky Lancashire schoolchildren.
Pupils from Our Lady of The Assumption Catholic Primary School in Blackpool and Hodgson Academy in Poulton were invited by The Grand’s Cultural Education Manager, Jo Cleasby, to be Story Ambassadors for the day and dive into the library to enjoy a reading of Malorie’s uplifting tale of family, friendship and the profound choices we make.
Story Ambassadors are young people chosen by their schools to promote the power of written stories that also appear on The Grand stage, and they raced back to class after their library trip to tell everyone all about it! These lucky pupils will then join their classmates to enjoy the fabulous new five-star stage production of Malorie Blackman’s Pig Heart Boy (Wednesday 14 to Saturday 17 May), which will bring their favourite characters from the book to even more glorious life!
This hugely acclaimed new production of multi-award-winning writer Malorie Blackman’s beloved novel has been adapted for the stage by renowned playwright Winsome Pinnock in a Unicorn Theatre co-production with Sheffield Theatres and Children’s Theatre Partnershipmarking a thrilling collaboration between leading institutions dedicated to creating thoughtprovoking theatre for young audiences.