Category: Venue News
Joe Pasquale’s Most Iconic Moments…
20 September 2018
Take a look at our favorite Joe Pasquale moments, and keep up to date with all the Joe Pasquale info on the lead up to his fantastic show, ‘A Few Of My Favorite Things’ here at Viva Blackpool, Friday 28th September 2018!
I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!… And take me to Viva Blackpool
There is only one King of the Jungle at Viva Blackpool, and that’s our favorite squeaky comedian Joe Pasquale. Back in 2004, Joe won the hearts of the nation yet again with his sensational time on ‘I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here’.
Without a doubt our favorite I’m a Celeb’ moment of Joe’s was his bushtucker trials, being the first celebrity to win all the stars in each trial he was faced with! From climbing from a helicopter to being buried underground with rats, there wasn’t much this man wouldn’t do to get a win for his team!
Despite his heroic victories, Joe won Viva’s hearts showing his softer side putting the jungle’s two pet emus under his wing, check out this video published by ‘Mrs Joe Pasquale’.
An Audience with Joe Pasquale
ITV blessed the UK with the broadcasting ‘An Audience with Joe Pasquale’ in 2005, the show was a huge success with nine million Brits tuning in to see the helium-pitched comedian take to the stage with his side-splitting comedy.
Unlike his DVD, the ITV show featured twenty minutes of never seen before footage, featuring celebrity guests such as Barbara Windsor, Jodie Marsh, Boy George, Bradley Walsh and many more!
Fast forward to 2018, Joe is still wowing audiences up and down the UK now with his 2018 tour ‘A Few of my Favourite Things’.
Joe Pasquale’s First Standing Ovation
In an interview featured in the Big Issue, Joe shared with readers that his first standing ovation was when he had an unfortunate collision with a microphone. We are unsure to the exact date of this, however; we assume it was early in his career, but make sure to look out for any microphone related accidents at his latest performance at Viva Blackpool!
Dancing on Ice
Despite finishing at the bottom and being booted off early after his battle of the jokers in his final skate against Keith Chegwin, judges came to the disappointing decision to say goodbye to one of Viva’s favorite comedians.
Although being branded as the ‘worst we have ever had’ by Head Coach Karen Barber, no one can deny that Joe’s attitude and determination was faultless in his attempts to win Dancing on Ice, much like his past win on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here.
Admittedly, Joe said “I don’t think I was booked on my skating”, but was honored to be working with the legendary Torvill and Dean.
Grace and timing might not be one of Joe’s strengths but we can’t argue with Joe’s Flash performance!
Charity Work
Joe has also been an influential figure, representing multiple charities to do with male health. Alongside other celebrities, Joe helped to spread awareness of the Man Alive Campaign in 2005, which was run by Cancer Research UK.
The campaign was created to alert men of the dangers and consequences of being overweight and to encourage exercise. The main goal of the campaign was to spread awareness of the connection between obesity and cancer. Physical inactivity can cause cancer in men – this cancer can be prevented with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Joe has even jumped out of a plane alongside daughter Tina in aid of Diabetes UK.
Theatre Career
In recent years Pasquale has begun acting on stage. Joe has had an illustrious theatre career, and can well and truly be considered panto royalty! Just some of his many roles include Smee in Peter Pan, King Arthur in Spamalot, Sherlock Holmes in Ha Ha Holmes! The Hound of the Baskervilles and Leo Bloom in the producers.
Joe Pasquale is coming to Viva Blackpool on Friday 28th September!
Prices (Based on Reserved Seating)
Show Tickets from £24.50 to £26.50pp
‘Show & Dine’ discounted upgrades from £16.95 to £21.45pp
Book your tickets by clicking here or call 01253 297 297.
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Step Back in Time…
11 September 2018
Although Viva Blackpool may be a relatively new entertainment venue in Blackpool, its history can date back to 1899. Shrouded in history, the Vegas Venue in the heart of Blackpool was once the home of The Alhambra Complex. The theatre provided a hub of variety and above all first-class entertainment for Blackpool locals and those visiting the seaside town, much like it does today.
Designed by Theatre Architects, Wylson & Long for just £382,000 (equivalent, to just over £47 million), this building was set to wow all that walked through its doors. Upon entering the impressive building you were greeted by the outstanding entrance Hall located in the center of the building that linked its in-house entertainment venues, including its own Theatre, Circus, Ballroom as well as its many cafes and restaurants. Notably, due to the location of this monumental building, it put itself in direct competition with the iconic Blackpool Tower.
Sadly, despite tremendous efforts, The Alhambra Theatre was sold to its rivals The Blackpool Tower Complex after going bankrupt in 1902, just two years after its grand opening.
Blackpool Tower Take Over
With the saddening closure of The Alhambra, The Blackpool Tower Complex set to make it yesterday’s news with there plans to create The Palace Complex.
Now with fire in their bellies, The Blackpool Tower Complex not only wanted to take over this fantastic building but to shape it into there own vision, and with the help of Theatre Architect, Frank Matcham, this became possible.
Opening in 1903, The Palace Complex turned into a then modern home for entertainment with the opening of its Palace Picture House and Palace ballroom in 1911 meaning one could have full access of its attractions for just one Place Theatre ticket. This reasonably priced entertainment complex meant it caught the interest of Blackpool’s growing locals.
Fast track to March 1950, the theatre reopened showing a star-studded variety show in The Palace Theatre, with nightly ballroom dancing, and dedicated weeks in the Picture Theatre including ‘The Romantic Age’ and ‘The Story of Molly’.
Unfortunately, despite its success, The Palace Theatre was demolished being one of the first of Blackpool’s theatres to be lost to make way for Blackpool’s new Lewis’ Department store.
Shop till you drop
After the loss of the much loved Palace Complex, the Lewis Department Store made its grand opening in 1964, wowing the public with its modern design and striking green lighting revealing the RHO Hills amerced in its modern honeycomb frontage.
Much like the late and great Alhambra and Palace Complex, the Lewis Department Store shared the same vision of offering multiple products under one roof. However, the Lewis Department Store applied this same concept to merchandise and services, unlike its predecessors.
The Lewis Department store was filled with an abundance of beauty, electrical, homeware, children toys, fashion as well as a café, restaurant, and a stunning roof terrace.
Many describe the closure of Lewi’s Department Store as an end of an era and a huge loss in Blackpool’s shopping district. The department store closed its doors in 1993. With interest from Bernard Delfont in creating it into an entertainment center that linked to the Tower Building. Despite this, plans fell through and the site was demolished to make way for a collection of chain-based stores.
It’s the 90’s Baby!
Move over Lewis, the 90’s are taking over! With building work starting swiftly after the closure of Lewis Department Store in 1993 making room for Poundland, Harry Ramsden’s, Woolworths Group and Mecca Bingo.
Mecca Bingo once stood at our fantastic Viva Blackpool location and we believe Mecca Bingo closed around 2007, moving to a purpose-built Mecca Bingo center on Blackpool’s Talbot Road.
Making Dreams into Reality
Fast track to June 2012 where Martin Haywood (Managing Director) and Leye D Johns (Entertainment Director) got the keys for what is now known as Viva Blackpool! From here it was all hands on deck to transform the dilapidated Mecca Bingo to the Vegas venue in the heart of Blackpool.
This amazing transformation took the team only 5 weeks from getting the keys to opening its doors on the 10th August 2012 for its grand opening. The pressure, hard work, and the organization paid off as the night was a huge success!
From here Viva Blackpool has grown from strength to strength creating jobs for Blackpool locals, a hub of entertainment as well as fantastic friends. The venue provides top class entertainment for Blackpool tourists and locals alike with its fantastic in-house shows and a whole variety of visiting acts. The Viva building has always been a place that people have come to for entertainment, enjoyment and to indulge in the finer things.
Viva has now grown into a popular entertainment complex providing everything from a dinner and show. As a company, we continue to provide the same charm from its roots as the Alahambra and are very proud to be in a building shroud with so much history within this famous seaside resort.
Special Thanks
Thank you to the Blackpool Central Library Local History Department, Arthurlloys.co.uk and The Blackpool Museum Project for supplying with fantastic information on this amazing location.
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Frankie Asks…The Iconic Rocket Man
30 August 2018
It’s that time again as our very own Frankie Valli from the Jersey Beats speaks to the amazing, Jimmy Love about his eagerly anticipated tribute to the Multi-Grammy award winning icon, Sir Elton John in his star-studded tribute performance, ‘Rocket Man – A Tribute to Sir Elton John‘.
Frankie covers all things, from one of Jimmy’s first taste of performing back when he studied at Blackpool & the Fylde College, being a Pontins Blue Coat back in 1993, the story behind Rocket Man and finally touring the UK as the fabulous Sir Elton John.
Jimmy’s flawless performance, will take you through a musical journey of Sir Elton’s much-loved classics that made him into the chart-topping legend he is today. Combining breathtaking vocals, amazing piano skills, as well as flamboyant costumes.
Jimmy will be performing songs such as, ‘Crocodile Rock’, ‘Philadelphia Freedom’, ‘Saturday Night Alright for Fighting’, ‘Are you Ready for Love’, ‘I’m Still Standing’, I Guess That’s Why They Call it the Blues’…The question is, are you reeeeaaaady, are ready for…Rocket Man?
Starting his musical career here in the heart of Blackpool, at the wonderful Blackpool and Fylde College Jimmy has become a true legend in the entertainment circuit, capturing Blackpool’s fantastic homegrown talent.
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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.
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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.
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!
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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!
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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
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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!
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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!
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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
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