Blackpool Grand Theatre begins the exciting Architectural Lens: A Year of Exploration photographic series in February with an exclusive visit to The Imperial Hotel hosted by internationally acclaimed photographer Sean Conboy

Hurry! These sought-after photography sessions will be gone in a flash…

Check into Blackpool’s famous IMPERIAL HOTEL on Wednesday 26 February for the very first ARCHITECTURAL LENS: A YEAR OF EXPLORATION session from Blackpool Grand Theatre with celebrated photographer SEAN CONBOY.

Architectural Lens: A Year of Exploration will take an extraordinary visual journey through the architectural gems of the North West, led by critically acclaimed photographer Sean Conboy and hosted by the iconic Blackpool Grand Theatre.

Each of the sessions in this fascinating series will also focus on a unique architectural theme, with the Imperial Hotel session on Wednesday 26 February covering Space & Scale. The session will take place in the breath-taking interior of this historic landmark, offering participants the chance to unlock their creativity and capture the famous building’s opulent ceilings, intricate cornices and timeless Victorian elegance.

Imperial Hotel General Manager, Trevor Vels, said: “The Imperial Hotel is one of the iconic businesses that charts the rich history of our town and has played host to royalty, celebrities and politicians and valued guests for over 157 years. As a Grade 2 listed building with exceptional architectural features, we are thrilled to offer our Washington Ballroom and Louis Suite as subject matter for the photographers. I have no doubt that they will enjoy experiencing the atmosphere of two of our most historic rooms and their images captured will further illustrate the soul of our “Grand Dame”.

The photographic journey will then continue throughout the year and comprises:

• Monday 10 March from 10am to 2pm – Blackpool Tower Ballroom – Theme: Entertainment History & Heritage
• Thursday 15 May from 9am to 11am – Lytham Hall – Theme: Light & Shadow
• Tuesday 8 July from 2pm to 4pm – Blackpool Promenade – Theme: People & Places
• Tuesday 30 September from 9am to 11am – Blackpool Pleasure Beach – Theme: Art Deco & Fascinating Structures
• Monday 24 November from 10am to 12noon – Blackpool Town Hall – Theme: Modern Architecture & Sustainable Design
• January 2026 (date and time to be confirmed)– Blackpool Grand Theatre – Theme: Details & Patterns

Sean Conboy’s remarkable portfolio boasts over 30 years of capturing architectural wonders for illustrious clients like The Royal Opera House and The Savoy Hotel. Known for his ability to

highlight the intricate beauty of both modern and historic buildings, Conboy’s unique style marries technical brilliance with a passion for storytelling through images – making him the ideal mentor for this highly anticipated series.

Sean Conboy said: “This season of photography sessions offer participants an up-close and personal exploration of eight iconic venues, each handpicked for historical significance, architectural splendour and storytelling potential. I will be there every step of the way to guide participants in finding their own creative voice through the lens.”

The first session of Blackpool Grand Theatre’s Architectural Lens: A Year of Exploration with Sean Conboy is at The Imperial Hotel on Wednesday 26 February from 11am to 1pm