This weekend, Blackpool Operate House will host a major music event to support its bid to become UK City of Culture, 2029.
The free, People’s Stage event takes place on Sunday, featuring Manchester’s Hallé Orchestra, Jack Savoretti and All-Star House Band featuring members of James and The Stone Roses, special appearances from Blackpool’s Little Boots and Rae Morris.
“Blackpool’s always had a special magic about it. There’s an energy that gets under your skin, and it’s a place that’s given James some unforgettable nights over the years,” said Saul Davies, guitarist and violinist from James.
“The Empress Ballroom gigs are the stuff of legend – those crowds, that atmosphere, it stays with you. So when the chance came for me to be part of The People’s Stage and help support Blackpool’s UK City of Culture 2029 bid, it was an easy yes. It’s a huge privilege to be involved in this amazing event. Blackpool’s a place that’s always known how to put on a show and it truly deserves the spotlight.”
It also marks the resorts’ hosting of the V&A’s David Bowie: on Tour 2027 which is heading to Showtown.
That’s why The People’s Stage will be built around the iconic songbook of David Bowie, with each guest artist performing their own interpretation of a Bowie classic, in collaboration with the Hallé Orchestra and All-Star House Band, as well as some of their own top hits.
It’s hosted by Blackpool journalist John Robb.
“This is not simply a concert. It’s a civic statement. It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring people together in the place that has always known how to entertain the nation, and to say clearly: Blackpool is ready. Blackpool believes,” said Robb.
“Blackpool belongs on the national cultural stage. This is not a closed cultural event. It’s for the people. It also gives Blackpool residents a stake in the City of Culture campaign and a reason to feel proud.”
If Blackpool’s bid is successful, it would receive £10m to host a year-long celebration of arts and culture designed for local people, while boosting the visitor economy, creating new jobs and strengthening the town’s creative identity.
