A new two-year programme will bring more theatre, music, poetry and creative opportunities into Blackpool libraries, with subsidised tickets and support for local artists.
Blackpool’s libraries are set to become a bigger part of the town’s cultural landscape, with a £90,000 Arts Council England award funding two years of live performances and creative activity across local communities.
Blackpool Libraries is working with Blackburn with Darwen Libraries and arts organisation Culturapedia to develop the programme, which will bring more theatre, live music, poetry, visual art and craft activities into library spaces.
The initiative builds on Culturapedia’s Spot On Lancashire programme, which has already brought performances to Anchorsholme, Layton and Moor Park libraries. The new funding will allow that work to reach more people, with a programme of touring performances, community-led creative projects and opportunities for local artists.
Tickets will be heavily subsidised, with the aim of making live arts more accessible to residents who might not otherwise attend performances or creative events.
The programme also includes opportunities for local artists to develop their work through community-led creative residencies, alongside training and development for library staff and volunteers.
The new programme will sit alongside an existing range of cultural and creative activity in Blackpool’s libraries, including live music through Get It Loud in Libraries, art clubs, craft sessions, reading and social groups, as well as immersive virtual reality experiences. This summer The Old Electric hosted the Southbank Centre’s Mobile Poetry Van at Central Library as performed their production, Seagulls, Sideshows and Shanties there (main image).
Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said the funding would build on the role libraries already play as community spaces.
“Our libraries are already so much more than places to borrow books. From live music and family sessions to art, craft and social groups, they bring people together and give residents opportunities to try something new.
“This funding will help us build on that offer by bringing even more theatre, music, poetry and creative activities into communities across Blackpool.
“We had amazing news last week that Blackpool’s City of Culture 2029 bid had been shortlisted and it’s important to recognise that culture is about so much more than entertainment. It can help our young people build confidence, make friendships, discover new interests and experience the joy that comes from taking part in something creative. It can open up opportunities, bring people together and help people feel part of their community.
“Culture should be accessible to everyone, whatever their age or background, and bringing these experiences into our local libraries, close to where people live, is a great way to make that happen.”
Sue Robinson, Co-Director of Culturapedia, said:
“We are delighted to build on our relationship with Blackpool Libraries and continue working together to bring more live arts into local communities.
“Over the last two years, we have brought shows to Anchorsholme, Layton and Moor Park libraries, and this new programme will give even more people the chance to enjoy affordable performances and creative activities on their doorstep.
Planning is under way, with the first performances and activities expected to be announced over the coming months.
Keep up to date with events at Blackpool Libraries on the BSC Guide
