The Stage

Arts chiefs call for Blackpool to focus on live entertainment

Published Tuesday 6 February 2007 at 14:30 by Alistair Smith

Leading figures from Blackpool’s theatre sector have called on officials behind the town’s proposed regeneration to shift their focus to live entertainment, following the resort’s failed bid for a super-casino.

Blackpool Grand manager Paul Iles said that while the Casino Advisory Panel’s decision to chose Manchester as its preferred location for a super-casino marked a setback, it was important that a new ‘lever’ was found with which to regenerate the Lancashire town.

He commented: “The recommendation is very bad, but it underscores the need for Blackpool to look after what we have. The Grand Theatre, the Opera House, the Pleasure Beach, Tower Circus and Ballroom comprise the most astonishing and varied performance spaces outside London. Live theatre has not featured in the town’s regeneration plans. Now is the moment to put entertainment at the heartbeat of new plans, and to seize the potential for the National Theatre of Variety to be Blackpool’s lever to rebuilding the resort.”

The success of Manchester’s bid has been regarded as a blow not only for Blackpool, but for live entertainment generally. Unlike Blackpool’s proposed regional casino, which had light entertainment “central” to its plans, Manchester’s proposal is likely to be located in east Manchester’s Sportcity development, with its focus more on sports facilities and a large music arena.

Amanda Thompson, managing director of Pleasure Beach - Blackpool’s theme park, which includes three theatre venues - stressed it was crucial that despite the CAP’s decision, more companies invested in the resort.

She said: “Pleasure Beach has always had faith in Blackpool. My family has invested in the town for more than 100 years and we have continued to attract almost 6 million visitors every year.

“With all the regeneration that has already taken place, Blackpool is moving forwards. I hope to see more investors following in Pleasure Beach’s footsteps and investing in this wonderful town.”

Meanwhile, producer Duggie Chapman said that the local authority now had to look at a ‘plan B’, focussing on family entertainment and increased investment in the Grand. He added: “Blackpool Council can’t forever stand back and rely on private investors all the time. They really ought to get their finger out and support the Grand or they will eventually lose this masterpiece. Blackpool has already lost The South Pier, Central Pier, Palace, Queens and the ABC theatres. Bring back big family attractions and the public will return.”

While the CAP has given its verdict on its preferred destination for the first super-casino, its report still has to be approved by parliament. It is understood that representatives of the Blackpool bid are lobbying MPs to reject the proposals and calls for a judicial review of the CAP’s decision are also being considered.