Author: Viva Blackpool
Essential Tips for the Christmas Party Organiser
21 August 2018
‘Tis the season to be jolly! And that’s just what we think every Christmas Party Organiser should be! So, when it comes to taking the stress out of your event planning, Viva Blackpool has your back with our top Christmas Party Planning tips.
Don’t Kill My Vibe
We all know you’re not going to please everyone (especially Doris from Accounts and that new work placement girl that seems to do nothing). However, you can’t let this dampen your spirits, as you (somehow) become 2018’s Christmas Party Organiser!
So, first things first, what vibe are you going for? Is your plan to get everyone as “MERRY” as possible and have a big knees up? Or are you looking for something slightly more sophisticated, in a last-ditch attempt to keep all office gossip to a minimum.
It’s All About the Money Hunny
Time to get your Accountant hat on and become the next Carol Vorderman, as you set yourself the task of getting the best value for money for your Christmas Party.
It’s safe to say everyone in your place of work will want a bargain – especially around Christmas time! So, our top tip is to create three different options, all varying in price, then get everyone to vote for what option they would like.
And don’t forget! Many venues (including ourselves, hint, hint), create exclusive drinks packages to suit your budget, so don’t feel cheeky telling a venue your budget and asking about what options they can create for you.
Finally, when it comes to the crunch time and you need to turn into the office debt collector in order to get everyone’s deposit, send an email a week before pay day stating you will be collecting everyone’s deposits on pay day (or the day after, no one minds spending money on pay day!)
Stick to your guns!
You have created a democracy! And once everyone has voted for their preferred price range, stick to it! And you can’t help if Stacey from Admin can’t get someone to baby sit her growing family of cats the night of the Christmas party, the people have voted!
And while you’re at it get them to vote on a date! Don’t be too generous though, just put three dates to choose from and go from there.
Also, if anyone starts complaining about what and when you have chosen, the decision was out of your hands and that’s that!
Take the Stress Away…
No one quite understands just how stressful organising a Christmas Party can be, but here at Viva Blackpool we have you covered with a range of fantastic festive events:
A full-on, hands in the hair, dance around the table and sing at the top of your voice show filled with festive FUN!
This is the festive party night in 2018 you don’t want to miss! With pre-show Christmas dining available, drinks packages, table service, as well as a host of fantastic entertainment. The only thing you need to bring is your mistletoe!
Join us for this dazzling new show and experience a Christmas show in Blackpool like no other!
Viva is transformed into a winter wonderland full of charm and surprise. Our talented cast of singers, dancers and musicians, will transport you to those feel-good Christmases gone by in a wave of nostalgia and joy.
If you’re planning on booking to see one of our Spirit of Christmas shows or one of our Ultimate Christmas Party nights our lovely Box Office Supervisor Natasha is ready to create bespoke drinks packages and deals that suite your budget. Give her a call on 01253 297297, and she will be happy to help!
We also have fantastic Pre Order Menus, so the office vegan can decide on their food choice ahead of time to avoid unwanted waiting around.
Whether it’s a corporate party, work do, or an old-fashioned family get together, our venue is a blank canvas ready to host any sized event – large or small. With over 20 years’ experience in hosting (and attending!) Christmas parties across the Fylde coast, our expertise will help you put the “wow” factor into your event.
Wanting something bigger, a private room? We have you covered! Amy Mantel our Events Manager can create dedicated events to be held in one of our stunning event rooms. Just simply click here to see our three stunning event rooms.
Our Top Tip: Book now! Why give yourself added stress of a short deadline when you can book way in advance and give yourself plenty of time to organise the event of the year! For more information, click here to request our Christmas Party Pack, or call our Box Office Team for more information on 01253 297297.
Other recent news
Our Top Five George Micheal Moments
1 August 2018
It’s safe to safe we all love George Michael here at Viva Blackpool, from his amazing voice, charismatic charm and striking looks, in our eyes he’s the perfect pop star!
And in the run up to the anticipated Faith – George Michael Tribute performance here at Viva Blackpool on Friday 17th August 2018, we have all been reminiscing about our favourite George Michael moments, including his iconic carpool karaoke and memorable cameo appearances.
No.1 George Michael on The Oprah Winfrey Show
Opening up about his life behind the tabloids, George provides viewers with an insight into his life in America with his partner [insert mane], Wham, his solo career as well as much, much more!
George has to be admired for his honesty stating “I don’t need approval of people who aren’t going to approve me”. And we couldn’t agree more!
Watch the full interview here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNdTgBEMFEE
No.2 Young George Michael Interview on Countdown
This is a massive through back in George’s career, taking it back to 1974 with Australian music TV series Countdown. The young George Michael discusses the early history of Wham and his plans for his further music career.
We know any George Michael fan would love this interview, bringing an enormous amount of nostalgia to his fantastic career.
Watch the full interview here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgEmDJzFX-s&t=45s
No.3 George Michael cameo with Catherine Tate – BBC Comedy
We don’t just love George for his music but for his amazing sense of humour, and his cameo in Catherine Tate’s Nurse Bernie sketch really lets this shine through!
Seeing George on any TV appearance has always been a delight, but this has got to be one of our favourites, despite being a star performer, he has always been able to laugh at himself. And we have loved every minuet of it!
No. 4 Whitney Houston, George Michael – If I Told You That
When two music icons collide, you just know its going to be a recipe for greatness. And with the likes of Whitney Houston and George Michael, you just know it’s going to be a floor filler.
‘If I Told You That’ this song is a Viva favourite I’m sure you would agree with us all! The Whitney and George hit was released back in 2000, This No.1 duet is a brilliant reminder of the amazing talent of two legends, and although George never performed this live we think his addition brought this song alive with his flawless vocals.
No.5 George Michael in James Corden’s First Carpool Karaoke for Comic Relief
What better way to kick start James’ Corden’s Carpool Karaoke then with the legendary George Michael!
Other recent news
Frankie Asks…The Legendary Cannon & Ball
26 July 2018
Viva Blackpool’s very own Frankie Valli, had the honour of interviewing the hilarious comedy duo, Cannon & Ball on the set of their eagerly anticipated play ‘The Dressing Room’, written by Bobby Ball himself.
The interview covers everything from life before fame, writing jokes, Last Laugh in Vegas, Viva Blackpool. As well as an interview exclusive of a new member could be joining the comedy duo very soon, hit play to find out more!!
During the interview, the pair discussed how Viva Blackpool is like a home from home for them, taking them back to the good old days of entertainment.
Tommy Cannon said “It just takes you back to when clubs like that where countrywide” – and we couldn’t agree more, Viva Blackpool is the home of entertainment delivering a variety of performances that suite everyone’s taste.
Cannon & Ball have been together for 55 years bringing laughter to the nations, and Viva Blackpool couldn’t be happier to have them grace the stage once again!
Click here to find out more about their latest Viva performance on September 14th, 2018, and with tickets starting at just £14.50 it will be a night not to be missed!
Other recent news
Bank Holiday + Summer = Blackpool
20 July 2018
Your Summer Starts Here…
Cheap & Cheerful!
Blackpool beach is seven miles of golden sand and blue seas – this time of year is the only opportunity to thoroughly enjoy it thanks to the good ol’ British weather! It boasts some interesting landmarks surrounding the sandy shores, including The Blackpool Tower and The Comedy Carpet – plus the greatest Vegas themed venue in the UK! You wouldn’t expect this from a UK beach, but Blackpool has been awarded the Blue Flag award for it’s incredible shores. FEE’s Blue Flag criteria include standards for water quality, safety, environmental education and information, the provision of services and general environmental management criteria. It’s a great place to have some fun with the kids, plus it has the potential to be quite educational! If you wander along the Promenade, you’ll find The Sea Life Center which houses a lot of wildlife found along the Blackpool shore. It’s a great way to discover what wildlife thrives locally!
Sea Life Tickets: Adult – £16.50/Child – £13.50
Hey Big Spender – It’s Festival Season!
2007 saw the launch of Punk Rock festival ‘Rebellion’ and it’s attracted the colourful crowds of alternatives to the sunny shores of Blackpool ever since. The festival itself has roots stretching back to as early as 1997 and has travelled all over the world; now they call Blackpool home. The established 4-day-weekender showcases all of the best Punk bands of a wide variety of sub genres – so there’s a little bit for everyone! The entire event takes place inside the spectacular Winter Gardens and has a lavish array of bands performing live on the various stages throughout the venue. Aside from live music, the festival also includes a museum of memorabilia and a history of Punk as well as vendors and bars. The event stretches from 2nd August 2018 until 5th August 2018 and you have the option to buy a ticket for the entire festival or pay per day. So the Sunday might be absolutely perfect for our Scottish visitors you as you’ll have a Bank Holiday Monday (6th August) to recover! Festivals can be extremely tiring, so you’ll need to keep your energy levels up high! Take a break and wander to the promenade to recharge and refuel at The Viva Vegas Diner! You can take in the wonderful seaside view with some awesome American style food! We may even have an eating challenge or two!
Tickets: £63 per day or £165
The Comedy Station Comedy Club boasts not only to be the first ever and therefore, longest running comedy club in Blackpool, but since moving to Viva, they’re officially the most popular comedy club in Blackpool! Local Celebrity Ryan Gleeson is the host for an evening of drinks and laughs every Saturday night at the Round Room in Viva. There’s a different line-up every week and includes 3 comedians from all around the world! Ryan Gleeson warms the crowd up and introduces 2 acts followed by a headliner. Drinks are reasonable and the atmosphere is wonderful. It’s a great way to spend a relaxing Saturday night and unwind after a stressful week!
Tickets: £18.50
Other recent news
Frankie Asks…’Streisand & Me’
6 July 2018
In the debut episode, Frankie from Viva Blackpool’s Jersey Beats, sits down to talk with the sensational Tracey Jordan from ‘Streisand & Me!’ coming to Viva on Monday 6th August 2018!
Frankie couldn’t resist asking Tracey about her experiences accompanying the legendary Joe Longthorne and how ‘Streisand and Me’ came to life.
Tracey revealed that from performing the Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand classic, ‘You Don’t Bring Me Flowers’ with the the legendary Joe Longthorne that it was his words of encouragement that really gave Tracey the confidence to step into the spotlight – and we’re so glad she did!
“…even Joe said to me – “You need to sing more of (Streisand’s) stuff! You need to put your own show together!”” – Tracey on her conversations with Joe Longthorne about her singing career.
The band accompanying Tracey during her performance of Streisand & Me will be a five piece band, all of whom she’s very familiar with as they also perform on stage with Joe Longthorne!
(Video credit to: Peter Lines)
Tracey has always been emphatic about how the show is not an impersonation or a tribute act, but rather a performance of Streisand’s songs in her own style. Tracey pays tribute to the music rather than the icon – and we wouldn’t want it any other way!
We really can’t wait for August 6th! Book your tickets today at www.vivablackpool.com/event/streisand-and-me or call the box office on (01253) 297 297!
Other recent news
Are you ready for (Jimmy) Love?
15 May 2018
Viva Blackpool is proud to present The Rocket Man: a flamboyant and glitzy Tribute to the fabulous Sir Elton John.
We are so excited to announce that Jimmy Love as Sir Elton John is coming to Viva Blackpool on the 10th November for one night only! In his outstanding show The Rocket Man. This experience promises to be a musical journey with spectacular vocals, flamboyant costumes and a dazzling light show.
Acclaimed local entertainer Jimmy Love is touring the UK this year and we are extremely proud to be the venue hosting him on his home turf. Described by critics as the most accurate depiction of Sir Elton John, Jimmy Love and his talented backing singers and band are bound to bring some sparkle into your night. Jimmy Love has been impersonating Sir Elton John for 11 years and has featured in Blackpools’ own The Legend Show and has performed at events and on-board cruise liners around the world.
The Rocket Man is a vibrant and energetic concert paying tribute to a true musical icon and his rise to superstardom. The breath-taking show presents you with an array of famous singles including Are You Ready for Love, I’m Still Standing and of course Rocket Man. The stunning added extras of fantastic lighting and production visuals including lasers and Viva Blackpools’ famous LED screen make this show much more than your standard tribute act.
No Elton John fan would want to miss this, so all you tiny dancers out there, grab your iconic sunglasses and sequin jackets and join us for a Saturday night you won’t forget!
Tickets on Sale now at the Early bird price of £23.50 for show only and £40.45 for Dinner and a show so don’t miss out!
Other recent news
It’s a special day for Elvis Presley fans
23 March 2018
Today marks a very special day for Elvis Presley fans and is a day in 1956 that changed the era of rock n’ roll forever! Here’s why;
Did you know that today marks the 62nd anniversary of Elvis Presley’s first ever released album, Elvis Presley (released in the UK as Elvis Presley Rock n’ Roll)? That’s right! 62 years ago, Elvis fans everywhere were hearing some of his best-known classic hits that we all know and love today for the very first time!
What makes this album one of the greatest moments in music history is the fact that not only did the album spend ten weeks at number one on the Billboard Top Pop Albums chart in 1956 but it was the first rock and roll album ever to make it to the top of the charts, and was the first million-selling album of that genre.
The album was such a huge success that in 2003, it was ranked number 56 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the 500 greatest albums of all time – which at that time was a massive achievement!
Elvis Presley was also one of three Presley albums to receive accolades in the reference book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die, the others being Elvis Is Back! and From Elvis in Memphis.
It was certified Gold on November 1, 1966 and Platinum on August 8, 2011 by the Recording Industry Association of America.
Personally, we think that this album alone alongside all of its achievements is why Elvis is known as the ‘KING OF ROCK N’ ROLL’!
Are you a lover of Elvis and all things rock n’ roll? Then ‘The World Famous Elvis Show: Chris Connor’ is a MUST SEE show for you! Coming to Viva Blackpool on the 2nd April, this incredible concert is a true homage to the music of Elvis and is performed by the world-renowned Elvis Presley tribute performer, Chris Connor!
Find out more or book tickets here
Other recent news
Spice Up Your Life!
1 March 2018
WANNABE – The Spice Girls Show in Blackpool is the only touring theatre production inspired by the ultimate girl power group and is returning in 2018 for it’s 2nd national tour.
With BOYZONE reuniting for their 25th anniversary, STEPS extending their tour and the SPICE GIRLS themselves appearing in their own TV Special, it is the perfect year to spread that 90s nostalgia far and wide. In fact, the past few years have seen a huge resurgence of many 90s groups from TAKE THAT and others such as FIVE, ATOMIC KITTEN, 911 and A1.
Formed in 1994, The Spice Girls captured the World’s attention with their debut single WANNABE, released on 7th July 1996. The single went on to become one of the best selling singles of all time, topping the charts in 37 countries and selling over 6 million copies Worldwide.
The Spice Girls and their ‘girl power’ defined a generation, becoming pop icons for many children, teenagers and adults of the time. 20 years later, people from all walks of life are reliving the 90s decade at this one-night-only theatre show based around 5 of the most recognizable female faces in music. The show is family friendly with many of the younger audience being introduced to these iconic songs for the first time.
WANNABE follows the girls’ glittering careers from their first release to their 2012 Olympic Ceremony reunion. Featuring the girls’ biggest hits and songs from their solo careers; whilst the cast bring to the stage that infamous unique charisma the Spice Girls were so well known for.
Representing the band, Hannah Thompson said: “We’re all obsessed with 90s music and we wanted to make a big splash with this huge concert tour. We’re creating the ultimate girls night out and who doesn’t know the words to Spice Up Your Life or Stop?!”
The hits just keep coming from this show with songs including Viva Forever, 2 Become 1, Who Do You Think You Are and new arrangements of the girls solo singles – from I Turn To You (Mel ‘Sporty’ C) to the show-stopping It’s Raining Men (Geri ‘Ginger’ Halliwell).
So if you like a bit of Spice then Zig-A-Zig-Ah down to the Box Office for tickets to the 90s events of the year!
Other recent news
Struggling to think of the perfect gift for Mother’s Day? Don’t worry, we have you covered!
23 February 2018
Don’t even think of letting mum cook this Mothers Day. Treat her to Brunch at the Viva Vegas Diner, Bar & Grill or to an Evening show with The Jerseys.
Join us for Mothers Day Brunch down at the Viva Vegas Diner, Bar & Grill situated on the Promenade. You can choose three delicious dishes from our exclusive Mother’s Day menu for just £14.95, and to make it that little bit extra special, we will offer you a glass of complimentary bubbly on arrival! The menu is available all day and there will be a guest singer performing between 2pm & 7pm. Make this celebration unforgettable by planning a unique gift in Blackpool that your mum will cherish. We recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment.
Looking for something to do in the evening? Treat your mum to an unforgettable experience with Dinner & Show for just £29.95 per person, as our fantastic four-part harmony group, The Jerseys serenade her in one incredibly special show! Taking a break from their second UK tour, The Jerseys will delight the crowd with classics from Franki Valli & The Four Seasons including “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like A Man”, “Bye, Bye, Baby”, “Oh What A Night” and many more. Dinner & Show or Show Only Tickets available.
Do you have a plan for Mother’s Day? Not made plans yet… Well, shame on you… Don’t worry though! Whether it’s an afternoon outing or a lovely evening, or perhaps both? We have you covered.
For More Info On
The Jerseys Mother’s Day special Click Here
For More Info On
Brunch at the Viva Vegas Diner Click Here
Other recent news
A Very Special Christmas Draw For The Fourth Battalion Regiment
20 February 2018
On Saturday 9th December 2017, the team here at Viva Blackpool had the pleasure of hosting a very special Christmas Draw for the 4th Battalion’s Duke of Lancaster Regiment.
Our events team were given the opportunity to meet and work with Sergeants Joseph Cork, Terry Leonard, and Garry Copeland in the organisation and delivery of this stunning Christmas celebration.
As always, our Events Manager Amy Mantle enjoyed planning this special occasion and bringing it to life for the Sergeants and their families to enjoy.
Amy is delighted to share a few memorable highlights of the planning journey, and what it was like helping to create a magical evening for her clients, and also what it was like working with such inspirational people.
The Meeting …
If I had to sum up the 4th Battalion’s Christmas Draw in one phrase it would have to be ‘a night to remember’. The first time I had the pleasure of meeting Sargent Joseph Cork, was back in May when he had booked to come and watch one of our in-house shows; Viva Vegas Live.
I’d say it was only a couple of weeks later that I received a phone call from Joe, actually enquiring about hiring our venue for a Christmas Party for his sergeants, to celebrate the Christmas festivities with their families.
Thinking back, I remember that this event was important to me personally and one that I wanted to make extra special as my own younger brother, Michael currently serves in the same Regiment as Sergeant Joe Cork.
Let The Preparations Begin …
Viva Blackpool is known for throwing the biggest and best celebrations in the North West and I knew I wanted this event to be no different, so of course, I invited Joe and his colleagues to the venue to have another look around and to discuss their requirement’s for the event and to my delight they fell in love with the venue and loved the options we could provide them with – Phew! Now for one of my favourite parts of my job – The preparations!
Over the following few weeks myself and the events team worked closely with Sergeant Cork to finalise a brief and get a solid plan of action in place – I really can’t tell you how many phone calls we exchanged in the six months lead up to the event and even Joe began to joke; “I bet you’re sick of hearing my voice”. However the six month lead up to the event flew by, and soon it was party time.
Venue…
With an impressive layout across our stunning Festival Suite, we placed 16 round tables suitable to each seat 8 guests, as well as setting down our beautiful white starlit dancefloor right in front of the stage, the venue looked perfect! One of our gorgeous Vegas Feathered Showgirl’s greeted guests as they arrived, handing out glasses of Prosecco and Orange Juice to add that glitz and glamour to this wonderful Christmas gathering.
The tables were dressed with white cloths, red runners, and a mixture of gold and silver candelabra’s (Sonje Jones Flower Design) were placed in the centre of each table complimented with scattered table diamantes. White chair covers and gold sashes that Sergeant Cork had chosen, really suited the theme of the room and gave it the elegant yet Christmassy feel that we were all hoping for. The red napkins in the wine glasses, the red Christmas crackers, the bottles of wine, and not to forget the bottle of bubbly on each table, really did create a sense of occasion and became one of the talking points of the night!
Exquisite Dining
Where do I start with the food? During our first meeting, Sergeant Cork, and Sergeant Copeland both knew that they were looking for a traditional Christmas Menu although they wanted this to be a little bit ‘more’ than the standard ‘Turkey Dinner’. After a discussion about our available menu options, they had opted for a 5-course menu, with the Tomato and Basil Soup to start served with warm crusty bread – A perfect winter warmer! For the main course; a traditional Turkey dinner, of course, served with seasonal vegetables, and potatoes, topped with Festive Turkey Jus. Followed by a mouth-watering Cookie Crumble Cheesecake, with Coffee’s, and a luxurious Cheeseboard served to each table.
I did my rounds of visiting each table to check the meals were being thoroughly enjoyed; I received nothing but wonderful feedback.
However, behind the scenes in the kitchen, Andy (our Executive Chef) and his team were busy freshly preparing two EXTRA vegetarian meals that had been requested during dinner service. Andy prepared a delicious Penang Curry served with Coconut and Coriander rice for the additional vegetarians, and they were so grateful that we could create something suitable for them at such last minute!
Entertainment…
I’ve been waiting to talk about this since the beginning of this blog, the entertainment is always the best part in my opinion, and the most important, the entertainment is what sets the atmosphere for the night. Luckily Joe chose our resident in-house tribute band, The Jerseys as well as DJ Phil Colbert to entertain the guests throughout the night and let’s just say everyone had a very ‘merry’ time.
Everyone up dancing along and having a laugh was the perfect way to end the evening.
Capturing Memories…
The whole night was truly memorable and everyone at Viva really did hope that everyone had an amazing time – one thing was for sure, memories were definitely made on the night and luckily our marketing manager Jon Boris managed to capture some amazing moments.
A few days later, I received an email from Joe that included some lovely comments about the party, it read:
Amy
On behalf of the Regimental Sergeant Major myself and the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess, I would like to thank you, and the rest of the team for an amazing evening. The food was superb, the room was impeccably dressed, and the entertainment was first class.
I have received nothing but positive feedback from all those that attended the evening, this is a credit to you and the hardworking team that supported us in the preparation and delivery of the evening.
I will be recommending Viva Blackpool for future military events.
Thanks again to you and the team for a superb evening.
It’s always lovely when we get feedback from our clients and really does make what we do so much more rewarding.]
If you would like to know more about our venue or want to look into hiring out one of our spectacular rooms then click here or call 01253 297 297.
Other recent news
