Blackpool is so lucky to have such a beautiful place like The Grand Theatre and to think, there was a time when it was going to be dismantled. What a shame for those who haven’t had the chance to go to a show in recent times. For those who say shows are not their thing, then there are many creative options now on offer.
Throughout 2013, The Grand will be hosting a variety of alternative experiences to enjoy within its sublime surroundings. My favourite is perhaps the photographic sessions, hosted by Sean Conboy. This Masterclass in photography gives members of the public the chance to photograph the exclusive surroundings, guided by Sean’s expertise and experience.
For those who cameras are not their thing, there are ย simple heritage tours. “There is no theatre quite like The Grand” – wasย the comment published in 1894, describing architectย Frank Matchamโs masterpiece. The Grand enjoys a longย and interesting history and was opened on July 23, 1894, by Thomas Sergenson, Blackpoolโs first successful theatrical manager. At that time,ย Blackpool dominated as theย popular holiday destination andย the theatre was no doubt one of its entertainment centres. The mind boggles to think of all the entertainment that has passed over the boards and gazed out into theย snugย auditorium. The tour shares the theatre’s backstage secrets too, the winding passages and stair-wells which lead to the dressing rooms used by stars, both past and present.
The Grand also offer creative learning packages in drama and dance, for students, at schools and educational establishments. These relatively new programmes are called: The Grand Learning Links Programme and the Young Artists in Residence Programme.
This Sunday, The Grand open their doors for The Grand Old Lady Tour. At the reduced rate of ย just ยฃ5, ย visitors will get the opportunity to explore backstage. What an interesting day out, a chance to gain a fascinating insight into the shows of a bygone age. What a privilege and at such a small admission fee. People passing that way this Sunday, should step over the threshold and be transported into this unique and historic experience and support this amazing spaceย which Blackpool is blessed to have. Visitors may even be lucky enough to experience the ghost of a broken hearted show girl, jilted by her leading man. Or perhaps, re-ignite a latent passion they have for the hidden world of theatre and the great mysteries that The Grand hides beneath its beautiful exterior.
For more information or to book go online toย www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk
Show Comments (0)