Theatres In Blackpool Winter Gardens – A Simple Overview
In this short guide, we take a quick look at the several theatres in Blackpool Winter Gardens.
The iconic Blackpool Winter Gardens complex is now home to several different theatres and entertainment venues.
In fact, due to its architectural importance, the Winter Gardens complex has been designated as a Grade ll listed building and has no less than 9 venues inside it. Each venue varies in both size and capacity, along with their own unique charm and character. As a result of the number of venues inside the Winter Gardens, a large number of shows, concerts, exhibitions and competitions are held throughout the year.
List Of Venues and Theatres in Blackpool Winter Gardens:
As previously mentioned, there a 9 main venues inside the Blackpool Winter Gardens complex, which are:
| Venue – Theatre | Capacity | Size (Square Meters) |
| Empress Ballroom | 3,250 | 1,102 m2 |
| Opera House | 2800 | |
| Olympia Exhibition Hall | 2,600 | 1,373 |
| Arena | 1000 | 420 |
| Pavilion & Horseshoe | 1120 | 1585 |
| Spanish Hall | 600 | 560 |
| Baronial Hall | 300 | 266 |
| Derham Lounge | 300 | 241.5 |
| Renaissance Room | 200 | 221 |
The two largest and probably most well-known venues within the Winter Gardens complex are the Empress Ballroom and the Opera House.
The Empress Ballroom:
Opened in 1896, the Empress Ballroom is certainly one of the most historic venues inside the Winter Gardens. In fact, due to its capacity of 3250, it is one of the largest and most beautiful ballrooms in the world.
Throughout its history, the Empress Ballroom has hosted many important events including concerts, major dance competitions, political conferences to name but a few. Today, The Empress Ballroom is famous for being one of the main venues for the Blackpool Dance Festival.
Interior:
One of the most stand out features of the Empress Ballroom is its stunning Baroque style architecture. Intricate plaster work is there to be admired, along with a high arched ceiling and crystal chandeliers. Another reason why the venue is so good for dance events is its sprung floor.
Visitor can also take tours round The Empress Ballroom as well as partake in tea dances.
Opera House:
The Opera House in Blackpool is definitely one of the most well known theatre venues in the town. With a seating capacity of 2800, the Opera House is also one of the largest theatres in the UK.
Since its opening in 1889, the Blackpool Opera House has played host to many well known shows and famous people. The theatre has been the home to operas, concerts, musicals and the traditional pantomime. As a result of the many shows that the Opera House has played host to over the years, it has seen many famous people grace its stage. Names such as Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey are just a few people who have played the Opera House.
As well as building a rich history, the Opera House has seen several changes since its opening. In fact, the Opera House has actually been rebuilt twice. These rebuilds were undertaken to cater for the ever growing audiences and provide more facilities to its visitors. The rebuilds also saw an improvement in the interior of the theatre, which now boasts an impressive art-deco style architecture.
Today, the Opera House is still playing host to major shows and events and as a result is now very popular with both locals and tourists.
Olympia Exhibition Hall – Centre:
The Olympia Exhibition Hall is a large space with a capacity of up to 2600 people. The venue is generally used for holding exhibitions, concerts and sporting events. In the past, the Exhibition centre has played host to major darts competitions, as well as major trade shows.
Arena:
The Arena is an intimate space twitch a capacity of up to 1000 people. Although the space is mainly used as a reception area for larger events, its versatility means the space can be utilised for pretty much anything.
Pavilion Horseshoe:
The Pavilion Horseshoe is a mid size venue with a capacity of up to 900 people or 500 seated. Due to its versatility, the venue can be used for just about anything. However, the venue is generally used for conferences or intimate gatherings such as celebratory dinners, presentations and talks.
Spanish Hall:
Unique in character and decor, the Spanish Hall is a mid size venue, originally used for dining and Afternoon Teas. Now, the multipurpose venue plays host to intimate events such as conferences, exhibitions, private functions, general meetings and more. With a capacity of 600 people, the Spanish Hall is perfect for medium sized events and gatherings.
Baronial Hall:
If you are looking for a small to medium sized venue, with a unique Medieval theme, then the Baronial Hall is the perfect venue. With a capacity of up to 300 people, this Jacobean banqueting suite is ideal for private functions and dinners.
Derham Lounge:
The Derham Lounge is a smaller space, ideal fro intimate gatherings. With a capacity of up to 30 people, this small space provides a more personal touch and atmosphere.
Renaissance Room:
The smallest venue space in the Winter Gardens complex, with a capacity of up to 200 people. However, although the space is smaller, it is versatile and offers the perfect venue for a more intimate gathering or event.
Summary:
The Winter Gardens complex in Blackpool is a Grade ll listed building, with a rich history. The complex is now home to many different venues, which include theatres, concert hall, ballrooms and conference centres. Throughout the years, the Winter Gardens complex has played host to many different shows. These shows include operas, musicals, plays, sporting events, trade shows and dance competitions. As a result, many famous faces have past through its doors. Now, the Winter Gardens complex still continues its legacy and hosts a number of major events and shows each year.
If you are visiting Blackpool on business or leisure, take time to visit the Winter Gardens and discover the different events on offer. Take in one of the shows or simply enjoy a drink or something to eat, while you admire the splendid architecture of each venue.
We hope this short guide has been helpful and provided a basic overview about the theatres in Blackpool Winter Gardens before you travel.