Following on this year’s phenomenal success, Blackpool International Soul festival is set to become an annual event.
This year, the first ever festival saw thousands of American and Modern Soul fans wowed by performances at the Winter Gardens as Blackpool International Soul Festival took to the stage. The success of this was the beginning of what could be a new era for soul music in Blackpool.
Organiser Richard Searling is now working with the Winter Gardens team to organise next year’s event.
Speaking about the festival Richard said “It was just such a fantastic weekend and the response we have had from the fans has been incredible. I reunited with long lost friends I have not seen out anywhere since the glory days of Blackpool Mecca and Wigan Casino. The artists, Winter Garden’s team and everyone who got behind the event have helped to make it such a success. We couldn’t have asked for better support.” Strong praise indeed.
Richard went on to say “I really don’t know how we’re going to top it but rest assured we’re already hard at work planning for another spectacular year.”
In the Empress Ballroom on a stage specially transformed for the festival, over 2500 fans enjoyed live music from American soul icons Betty Cavette, Geri Granger,Harold ‘Bobby’ Hutton and Dee Dee Sharp. The Pavilion Theatre played host to a Q&A session with Motown’s first A&R man, Mickey Stevenson and 200 scooters took to St. John’s Square. Festival goers were given the opportunity to immerse themselves in a plethora of musical styles including Soulful Jazz and Dance, Northern Soul All-nighters, Mod and Sca and Luxury Soul.
For those who just love to shop ‘A Northern Department Store’ offered the chance to grab some autographed 45’s, vintage clothing, rare records, official patches and other merchandise in a veritable wonderland of memorabilia.
The second Blackpool International Soul festival takes place at The Winter Gardens from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 July 2017 and tickets are now on sale with a special Early Bird discount, subject to availability.
For more information or to book tickets visit www.blackpoolsoulfestival.co.uk or call 0844 856 1111. You can also keep up to date on the Blackpool International Soul Festival Facebook group.
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