Author: Ed

Cliff Richard at the ABC Theatre

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Cliff Richard and The Shadows are an iconic British musical duo who not only dominated the charts but also became prominent figures in the world of cinema during the 1960s. Together, they appeared in six feature films, establishing a genre known as the “Cliff Richard musical,” which helped cement Richard’s status as a major cultural figure in Britain. Their film career began with Serious Charge in 1959, but it was their later films such as The Young Ones, Summer Holiday, Wonderful Life, and Finders Keepers that truly captured the public’s imagination. These films were incredibly popular, and their blend of…

Cannon and Ball

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Thomas Derbyshire (Cannon) and Robert Harper (Ball), known collectively as Cannon and Ball, formed one of the most beloved comedy double acts in British entertainment history. Their partnership spanned over four decades, from the early 1960s, when they first met while working as welders in Oldham, Lancashire, to their final performances together before Ball’s passing in 2020. Known for their impeccable timing, slapstick humour, and infectious personalities, the duo became a staple of British comedy, with their variety show The Cannon and Ball Show running on ITV from 1979 to 1988. Cannon and Ball’s journey into show business began in…

Marlene Dietrich at Opera House

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On 7 July 1955, legendary actress Marlene Dietrich flew into Blackpool to perform two shows at the Opera House. Shortly after her arrival at Squires Gate Airport, she requested a tour of the town and was photographed in front of the iconic Big Dipper at Blackpool Pleasure Beach. However, this wasn’t her first visit to the town; Dietrich had been there two decades earlier, in the summer of 1934, when she experienced an amusing and somewhat frustrating incident—she lost an antique pearl earring while visiting the Pleasure Beach. Interestingly, more than 70 years later in 2007, a construction team draining…

Kim Novak at The Opera House

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In 1956, Hollywood star Kim Novak visited Blackpool during her time in England for the premiere of The Eddy Duchin Story. The premiere took place at the Blackpool Opera House, where Novak posed for several publicity photos for Columbia Pictures, adding to her rising fame. The film, a biographical drama about the life of pianist and bandleader Eddy Duchin, starred Tyrone Power and Kim Novak. Directed by George Sidney, the film was a Technicolor production shot in CinemaScope, and was one of the biggest hits of 1956. It received four Academy Award nominations, with Harry Stradling nominated for his cinematography….

Jayne Mansfield Switches on the Lights

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On 9th September 1959, Hollywood actress Jayne Mansfield had the honour of switching on Blackpool’s world-famous Illuminations. Pictured here at the event, Mansfield stands at the centre, flanked by Ted Hill, the leader of the boilermakers’ union (left), and W.J. Carron, the president of the engineers’ union. Behind them is Morgan Phillips, the secretary of the Socialist party. This glamorous moment was part of the Trades Union Congress celebration, and Mansfield, with her iconic image, was the perfect figure to mark the occasion. Mansfield and her husband went to enjoy themselves at Blackpool’s beach but caused a controversy. A ‘Baby…

Mary’s Shell and More

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Mary’s Shell, an iconic piece of public art, was installed on Cleveleys Beach on 8th July 2013, as part of the ambitious Mythic Coast project, envisioned by artist Stephen Broadbent. This striking sculpture is one of several cultural initiatives designed to rejuvenate the Wyre coastline, particularly Cleveleys, and is closely linked to ongoing sea defence works in the area. The installation of Mary’s Shell was central to a broader cultural vision for the region, outlined in a strategy document produced by Broadbent’s studio. This vision document formed the foundation for a successful application to the Sea Change Fund, a government… Read more »

Silcocks Fun Palace

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Situated on Blackpool’s iconic Golden Mile, Silcock’s Fun Palace has been a staple of the town’s vibrant amusement scene since its opening in 1994. Unlike many of the other attractions along the promenade, Silcock’s Fun Palace is open all year round, making it a go-to destination regardless of the weather. Whether it’s sunny or stormy, visitors can count on a thrilling experience indoors, offering a wide array of adult gaming machines, £500 jackpots, and fun-filled ticket games for all ages. Silcock Leisure, the company behind the Fun Palace, is a remarkable 6th-generation family business that has been an integral part… Read more »

Ma Kellys Cabaret Showboat – Formerly Uncle Tom’s Cabin

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The iconic Showboat re-opened its doors in August 2017 after previously being known as Uncle Tom’s Cabin, bringing with it a fresh, exciting atmosphere and a commitment to offering one of the most unique entertainment experiences in Blackpool. There are more Ma Kellys on the Fylde Coast, one of which is the former Foxhall Pub. Widely regarded as one of the most exhilarating and amusing FREE shows on the Fylde Coast, the Showboat Showstopper delivers a thrilling evening of live entertainment that is impossible to beat. Every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday throughout the season, and on select winter dates, visitors…

Dame Barbara Windsor in Blackpool

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Dame Barbara Windsor was a beloved figure whose iconic roles spanned decades, making her a household name for generations of viewers. From her unforgettable performances in the Carry On films to her larger-than-life portrayal of Peggy Mitchell, the feisty landlady of the Queen Vic in EastEnders, Barbara captured the hearts of millions with her infectious energy and charm. Born Barbara Ann Deeks in London in 1937, she was the only child of John and Rose Deeks. In 1939, as World War II intensified, Barbara was evacuated to Blackpool for her safety, where she spent several years living in various homes….

The First Blackpool BIBA Awards

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The first Blackpool BIBAs (Be Inspired Business Awards) event took place in 2008 at the Tower and brought glitz to the local business community. Former Spandau Ballet front man, Tony Hadley, provided the entertainment to the 600 attendees. The awards took the Lancashire business community by storm and so the BIBAs quickly became the awards business wanted to win. The event returns to the resort in 2024 and is expecting over 1,000 guests to attend the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Twenty trophies will be up for grabs – plus Lancastrian of the Year – and the BIBAs team have been getting…