The Grand Theatre in Blackpool is also known as the ‘Hidden Gem of Blackpool’.
Actually, the history of the theatre is long and lively and dates right back to 1894. In fact, on 23 July 2019 it celebrated 125 glorious years! If only the walls could talk…
The iconic theatre is a Grade II* Listed Building, designed by Victorian theatre architect Frank Matcham. Opened in 1894 after a construction period of seven months, it cost £20,000 to build. The project was conceived and financed by local theatre manager Thomas Sergenson. Sergenson had been using the site of the Grand for several years to stage a circus. He had also transformed the fortunes of other local theatres.
Inside the theatre
The entrance to the Victorian auditorium of the Blackpool Grand Theatre is impressive. Here, you will understand what people mean by ‘the glorious Grand’. There’s the incredibly ornate, gilded plasterwork, baroque ceiling, cavorting cherubs and cantilevered balconies. In fact, this allows every seat a clear view of the stage and elegant new seats all creating a real ‘wow’ factor.
The theatre has a magnificent 4-level auditorium with 1,100 seats. It is without doubt, Lancashire’s premier touring theatre and arts centre. Indeed, here you can enjoy a wide ranging programme of shows throughout the year.
