Tuesday 29 January 2013

Grand Theatre Blackpool launches new-look Grand Theatre Bar - 'Matcham's Bar'

The Blackpool launch of "The Woman in White" on Monday, 28th January 2013 was the occasion for the Grand Theatre to launch their new-look Stage Door Cafe Bar.

The cafe is a perfect place for lunchtime coffees, tasty snacks and you just never know who you are going to see there so you could be 'mingling with the stars'.

The Grand Theatre's iconic Matcham's Bar, tucked away near the stage door around the back of the beautiful Grade II listed building, now has a brand new look.

While you sip your coffee, have a look at the amazing art work around the walls.  Acclaimed local artist Robin Ross* was asked to design a series of ten original artworks to reflect the heritage of Blackpool's Grand Theatre, which was saved for our enjoyment today by the efforts of people like actress and entertainer Violet Carson (Ena Sharples of Coronation Street fame) who spearheaded efforts to ensure the tradition of The Grand goes from strength to strength.

Around that time The Friends of the Grand were created and their generous donation has helped to pay for the refurbishment of the cafe.
Grand Theatre archivist Geoff Tolson (who kindly helped us out when we wanted to find out what was on at the Grand Theatre in December 1916) said, "Touring theatres like The Grand in Blackpool are very different from theatres in the West End of London.

"Actors on the road treat the receiving theatre as a home from home and are often to be found chatting to fans and the stage crew in the welcoming atmosphere of the theatre bar."

So make sure you keep an eye on what is going on at The Grand Theatre Blackpool and visit the Stage Door Cafe Bar - you never know who you might meet there!"

www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

*  NB Limited edition prints of Robin's work will be on sale in the Grand Theatre from 29th January 2013 with proceeds going to help maintain the beautiful building.