Friday 18 August saw the launch of The Grand Theatre New Season brochure, detailing all of their up and coming shows, spoiler alert you’re in for a treat! The intimate event took place on the stage which provided a unique setting for The Grand as they impressed their guests with technology, famous faces and fantastic looking shows.

The event began with fire and delight (in the literal sense). A fire eater at the stage door heated up the guests and definitely had their attention. Once inside the delight began in the form of four talented singers from the Walk Like A Man cast, who had the room in total silence and awe whilst they sang classics from Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

The Grand surprised their guests at the launch with the unveiling of their new virtual reality (VR) theatre tour. Putting on a VR headset allowed guests to tour every corner of the intricate, historic theatre without moving one step. This immersive experience was impressive and most of all fun, it highlighted the theatre’s interest in progressive technology and showcased a modern way to attract new audiences. The tour is available for you to view online through your own VR headset so take a trip to the Virtual Grand, goVR, find your way around and pick your seat before going into town and seeing it with your own eyes.

It is important for this thriving local theatre to cater for all types of audiences and that is exactly what they have done. There are fun filled shows for all of the family to enjoy including: a new production of the family favourite The Jungle Book which will bring Mowgli’s story to life. Explosive dance shows such as Stomp and The Tap Factory are coming to Blackpool this year, be impressed and inspired by the moves of these talented dancers. Of course, there’s the pinnacle of family entertainment, the spectacular annual pantomime. This year’s panto tells the classic tale of Cinderella and you might just recognise some of the cast. This is a show not to be missed and it will guarantee endless laughter… and not just from the kids! Panto is a show for everyone to enjoy with fantastic characters and clever comedy for all ages.

They haven’t forgotten about the young adults either and if you aren’t a regular theatre visitor that may change this year with musicals that you will not want to miss. My top picks are a production of everyone’s favourite chick flick, Legally Blonde (I’ll see you there Elle Woods) and A Night Of Dirty Dancing, the ultimate tribute show that will definitely have you channelling your inner Baby.

Another one of my personal recommendations is Thriller Live which is back for ANOTHER year. As Michael Jackson said “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”. Obviously, we haven’t had enough of the king of pop. I went to see this show a couple of years ago with a friend who is a huge fan, I didn’t have high expectations about enjoying the show and I didn’t think I knew enough of his music, but I was proved very wrong. I knew almost every song, the singing voices of the cast blew me away and I was captivated for the whole two hours, I even found myself up on my feet with the rest of the audience. So, if you like live music, super talented singers and some of the best pop songs in history I would book yourself a ticket.

Or what about Purple Rain – A Celebration of Prince where a full 8 piece live band delivers a non-stop hit packed show, why not see them both?

For those who want drama, a dance adaptation of the classic tragedy of Macbeth is coming to The Grand. This is one for the students and lovers of Shakespeare, if it’s drama you’re after then you will not be disappointed. There’s also a new West End favourite The Kite Runner which will be gracing the stage at The Grand in May 2018, it is a haunting tale of friendship which spans cultures and continents, following one man’s journey to confront his past and find redemption.

These are just my pick of an enticing selection of shows, there is more music, dance and drama to be found in The Grand Theatre New Season so pick up a brochure or browse the website to see the full season line up and book tickets, you won’t be disappointed.

by Grand Young Journalist Bethany Easton