SPRING is in the air and Blackpool’s Grand Theatre launches its #HelloSpring digital campaign. Shining a spotlight on some of our award-winning shows this season its seems a long list with Oscar nominee’s, Olivier, BAFTA, UK Theatre and TONY Award winners, celebrated Puppetry Designers from War Horse, plus we can’t fail to mention our two Sirs’, Sir Matthew Bourne OBE and Sir Ken Dodd OBE.

Olivier Award Winner, Best New Comedy Jessica Swale’s Nell Gwynn, embarks on its first ever UK tour – a warm hearted bawdy comedy that tells the story of and unlikely heroine, who went from orange seller to win the heart of the King. The Times describes it as ‘A absolute treat.’

Surgical Spirit’s Nichola McAuliffe who was crowned with her Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in Kiss Me, Kate. McAuliffe will be in the Premiere of the BAFTA Best Comedy Series nominated Waiting for God penned by the sitcom’s creator Michael Aitkens, and directed by Tony Award winner David Grindley.

Willy Russell’s iconic Shirley Valentine starring Jodie Prenger. Appearing in One Man, Two Guvnors at the Haymarket Theatre in London, alongside Owain Arthur who took over the role of Francis Henshall from Tony Award-winning actor James Corden. Prenger is a local star who frequently sits in for Paul O’Grady and Elaine Paige, when they are absent from their BBC Radio 2 shows.

Willy Russell’s heart-warming comedy premiered in 1986 and took the world by story. It was adapted into and Oscar nominated film. Now, on its 30 Anniversary, Prenger stars in the first major revival of this national treasure. The Daily Mirror describes it as ‘the funniest and most heart-warming play.’

Adapted by Olivier Award winner David Wood (Goodnight Mr Tom, James and The Giant Peach, The BFG), Babe the Sheep-pig is an enchanting family favourite, the classic novel which inspired the Oscar-winning film is brought to life by a cast of West End performers in a show brimming with laughter, thrills and stunning puppetry and original live music.

Dance at The Grand never ceases to amaze, delight and sometime challenge. This season we are thrilled to welcome Sir Matthew Bourne with his Early Adventures. Bourne returns to his roots with a programme of hit pieces that launched the career of ‘Britain’s favourite choreographer’ and whom created such memorable hit pieces as Swan Lake, The Car Man, Edward Scissorhands and Sleeping Beauty.

Gary Clarke presents his strong, powerful and emotive COAL. Marking the 30th anniversary of the end of the 1984/5 British miner’s strike. UK Theatre Award winner Clarke brings together striking physical language performed by a company of seven dancers, a local community cast of women and a live brass band.

For the full list of our shows visit the what’s on page or ring our box office on 01253 290 190.