A Grand summer ahead

Published: 11 March 2012
Reporter: David Upton

Blackpool used to boast a selection of long-running summer season shows at its many venues. Nowadays the resort's Grand Theatre reflects changing times with a roster of shows throughout the summer. It sees the return of singer Joe Longthorne, comedians Cannon & Ball, Roy Walker and Mick Miller, ABBA tribute Dancing Queen, children's favourites the Chuckle Brothers, and outrageous Roy ‘Chubby' Brown.

Mondays, from July 30 to September 3, see The Chuckle Brothers bring The Return of Pirates of River Rother 2: In Stranger Tights.

Tuesdays, the popular Dancing Queen return with their tribute to ABBA.

Wednesdays from August 1 to October 31 Mick Miller's Comedy Bonanza 2012 will see guests Jimmy Cricket, Billy Hunter and the Bonanza Dancers.

Every Thursday (August 2 to November 1) Joe Longthorne returns to The Grand along with comedian and Catchphrase star Roy Walker.

Fridays (August 3 to November 2) Cannon and Ball take to The Grand's stage. Roy ‘Chubby' Brown takes over Saturdays from August 4 to November 3 (excluding Saturday August 25).

A Night of Laughter with the ‘original' Comedians returns every Sunday, from July 29 to September 2. This includes live performances from Roy Walker, Stan Boardman, Mick Miller and Duggie Brown. It's hosted by legendary producer Johnnie Hamp and features archive clips and rare footage of Bernard Manning, Frank Carson and many more.

The Grand's summer wouldn't be the same without the Ken Dodd! After a sell-out 2011 he returns with his Happiness Show for Illumination Sundays, September 30 to November 4.

Neil Thomson, the Grand Theatre's boss says: "Following last year's success The Grand wanted to build on this formula to create Blackpool's biggest summer season, all in one venue."

Details: www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk

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