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What’s On Thursday 23rd February

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:59:47 +0000

Don’t miss our What’s On section for all the best in entertainment across the Fylde coast.

Attractions

NICKELODEON LAND. Discounted fun February half term. www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com. Details 0871 222 1234

MADAME TUSSAUDS. The best of British celebrities. More information www.madametussauds.com/blackpool. Central Promenade, Blackpool. 10am to 4.30pm. Details, (01253) 299483

SEA LIFE CENTRE. More information www.sealife.co.uk/blackpool. Golden Mile, Blackpool. Details, (01253) 621258.

BLACKPOOL TOWER BALLROOM. Open daily except for special events. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. Details, (0844) 8561000.

BLACKPOOL TOWER DUNGEON. Open daily. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. (01253) 622242

BLACKPOOL TOWER EYE. Open daily. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. (0844) 8561000

BLACKPOOL TOWER JUNGLE JIM’S. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. Details, (0844) 8561000.

BLACKPOOL ZOO AND DINOSAUR SAFARI. Home to more than 400 animals as well as 32 different dinosaurs. Daily from 10am. East Park Drive, Blackpool. Details (01253) 830830.

FARMER PARR’S ANIMAL WORLD. Rare breeds galore. Wyrefield Farm, Rossall Lane and Fleetwood Road, Fleetwood. Daily, 10am to 5pm. Details, (01253) 874389.

RIPLEYS BELIEVE IT OR NOT. Two floors of interactive exhibitions and displays. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, South Shore. Daily from 10am. Details, (0871) 2221234.

Theatre and shows

TWO. Justin Moorhouse and Victoria Elliott star in the latest revival of Jim Cartwight’s funny, stunning and sad exploration of all the stages of love. The Royal Exchange, St Anns Square, Manchester. Monday to Friday, 7.30pm. Wednesday, 2.30pm. Saturdays, 4 and 8pm. Ends February 25. Box office, (0161) 8339833.

ALFIE. David Thacker directs this revival of Bill Naughton’s 1960s kitchen sink comedy drama about a working class Don Juan of the East End, . The Octagon Theatre, Howell Croft South, Bolton. Monday to Saturday, 7.30pm. Some matinees. Ends February 18. Box office, (01204) 520661.

THE GATEKEEPER. Award winning writer Chloe Moss’ latest – set in the Lake District, a darkly comic tale of one family’s celebratory get together which falls apart. The Studio, Royal Exchange Theatre, St Anns Square, Manchester. To February 25. Box office, (0161) 8339833.

LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST. Northern Broadsides in partnership with the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme present director Barrie Rutter’s interpretation of Shakespeare’s unlikely comedy. The Dukes, Moor Lane, Lancaster. To Saturday, 7.30pm. Saturday matinee, 2pm.

Karaoke

KARAOKE. £50 cash prize to be won. The Townsman, Topping Street, Blackpool.

KARAOKE PARTY. Bar 19 Queen Street, Blackpool. 2 to 6pm.

KARAOKE AND CURRY NIGHT. The Albert, Lytham Road, South Shore.

KARAOKE. Churchill’s, Topping Street. Blackpool.

KARAOKE. Daily do it yourself session. Chubby’s Bar, The Promenade, Blackpool. From 9am to 6pm.

KARAOKE. Knobby’s Bar. West Street, Blackpool. And Thursday, Friday and Saturday. From 7pm.

KARAOKE CONTEST. £50 top prize to be won each week. The Whittle Springs, Talbot Road, Blackpool. From 8pm.

KARAOKE. With Glenn. The Travellers Rest, Beach Road, Cleveleys.

KARAOKE PARTY TIME. With host Sam. The Duke of York, Dickson Road, Blackpool. From 9pm.

KARAOKE NIGHT. With DJ Danny. The Belle Vue, Whitegate Drive, Blackpool. 9pm.

Cabaret

AN AUDIENCE WITH ROXY HART. Plus cabaret from Rita International. Free admission. Roxy’s, Queen Street, Blackpool.

80S GOLD. Ultimate tribute to the decade that taste forgot. With or without meal. Sands Venue, Central Promenade, Blackpool.

Nightclubs and dance

METRO. House, dance, party anthems, live music, drinks promotions and more. Nellie Deans, 150/152 North Promenade, Blackpool. From 10pm. free admission.

STUDENT NIGHT. DJ Caino playing dance, r ‘n’ b and pop, drinks offers, free admission. Che Bar, Market Street, Blackpool.

INNOCENCE. R’n’b, urban and house with Vince Williams. CoCo, Market Street, Blackpool. Free admission.

Pubs and bars

LOCALS PARTY NIGHT. With DJ Andy P, free admission and cut price drinks. Ego, Market Street, Blackpool.

LIONEL VINYL’S DECADES PARTY. Motown, disco, 80s, 90s and present day. The Litten Tree, Queen Street, Blackpool.

STUDENT HOUSE PARTY. With DJ Gaz Peck. Bar 19 Queen Street, Blackpool. 9pm to 4am.

JAMMIN ’NIGHT. All welcome. The Burn Naze, Gamble Road, Thornton.

CURRY NIGHT. Meal and drink deal. Frenchman’s Cove, South King Street, Blackpool. 4 to 9pm.

OPEN MIC. The Hansom Cab, Station Road, Lytham.

DJ SCOUSE’S PARTY NIGHT. Drink promotions, interactive DJ. Yates’s, Market Street, Blackpool.

SPANK NIGHT. DJ Sean in action. Drinks promotions. The Wyre Light, Fleetwood. 9pm to 2am.

THE THURSDAY FIESTA. Party tunes, prizes and balloon drop with DJ Mad Matt Munroe. Walkabout, Queen Street, Blackpool. To 3am.

GALLEON BAND. Resident house band plus guests – swing. blues and beyond.. The Galleon, Abingdon Street, Blackpool. Also Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Free entry.

TEA DANCE. And bingo. North Euston Hotel, The Esplanade, Fleetwood. 2 to 4pm.

ROB JOHNSON. Singer/guitarist. Buckingham’s, Queen Street, Blackpool. 3 to 5pm.

COCKTAIL NIGHT. Special offers, two djs with disco house and bar grooves to midnight. Bar 137, Church Street, Blackpool.

Line dancing

LINE DANCING. Beginners, 7.30 to 8.30pm. Intermediate with tuition until 10.30pm. Garstang United Reformed Church Hall, Garstang. Details, (01995) 670932.

LINE DANCING DISCO. Free tuition. Thornton Cleveleys RBL Club, Rough Lea Road, Cleveleys. Details, (01253) 595790.

FANCY FEET LINE DANCE. Social dancing and instruction – 10am to noon. Beginners and improver dancing with instruction – 1.30 to 3.30pm. Beginners first hour then all levels 6 to 10.15pm. Holy Trinity Memorial Hall, Dean Street, South Shore. Details, (07984)188972.

BEGINNERS LINE DANCING. Details 01253 760804. Marton Social Club, Daggers Hall Lane, Marton. 1 to 3pm.

LINE DANCING. And tuition. With Paul and Shirley. Progress Sports & Social Club, Exchange Street, Blackpool.

Social dancing

TEA DANCE. With David Windle on keyboards. The Ballroom, North Euston Hotel, The Esplanade, Fleetwood. 2 to 4pm.

TEA DANCE. Ballroom, Latin and popular sequence. Rio School of Dancing, Bispham United Reformed Church Hall, Cavendish Road, Bispham. 2 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 356558.

DANCING. Ballroom, Latin, Modern, Acro and more For fun. Chesters Dancing Academy, 19 Victoria Street, Fleetwood. Details, (07989) 144423.

SEQUENCE AND BALLROOM. To the maestro of Alan Reid. All welcome, with bingo and raffle. Bispham Conservative Club, Red Bank Road, Bispham. 8pm.

BALLROOM AND SEQUENCE. Ansdell Institute, Woodlands Road, Ansdell. 8 to 11pm. Details, (01772) 682012.

EASY SEQUENCE. Anchorsholme Friendly Club. Senior Citizens’ Hall, Victoria Road, Cleveleys. 1.30 to 3.45pm. Details, (01253) 854562.

SEQUENCE AND BALLROOM. Senior Citizens Association Hall, Victoria Road West, Cleveleys. From 7 to 10pm. Details, (01253) 852462.

SEQUENCE DANCING. All welcome. Central Methodist Church, Adelaide Street, Blackpool. 1.30 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 694846.

Salsa

SALSA AND MERENGE LESSONS. Beginners 7-8pm, intermediates 8-9pm, social dancing 9-10pm. The Station Tavern, Lytham.

PERUVIAN SALSA LESSONS. Beginners to intermediate. St Bernadette’s Parish Hall, All Hallows Road, Bispham. 6 to 8pm. Details, (07879) 413649.

NOCHES DE SALSA. Salsa lessons – beginners to advanced. Co-Operative Sports & Social Club, Preston New Road, Marton. 8pm to 9.30pm then dance until 11pm. Details, (012523) 401941 or 07967 768582.

SALSA. With Vitelio Ramos. Poulton Youth and Community Centre, Breck Road, Poulton and Thornton Sports Centre, Thornton. Details, (01253) 304996.

Other dancing

JC DANCE CLASSES. Childrens’ and adult dance classes. United Reformed Church, Queensway, Poulton. and Norbreck Primary School. Details, (07792) 410390.

RED SHOES CHEER AND DANCE ACADEMY FOR CHEERLEADING. Boys and girls welcome. Rear 147/149 Highfield Road, South Shore. Details from (01253) 310401

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING. All welcome – partner not necessary. Dancing to live music. The Scout Hut, St Patrick’s Road North, St Annes. 7.30 to 9.30pm. Details, (01253) 640247 or 07960 626836.

ADULT IRISH DANCE. Nicky Figgins Centre Stage School, Rear 216 Red Bank Road, Bispham. 7pm. Details, (07708) 642908.

CAROL MAY SCHOOL OF DANCE. Children and adults’ ballet, tap, jazz and keep fit. St Paul’s Parish Church, Ansdell & Fairhaven. 6 to 9pm. Also Saturday, 9am to 1pm. Details, (01172) 258525 or (07840) 167225.

STREET DANCE WORKOUT. Over 14’s sessions by Mimi Dance. Ansdell YMCA, Lytham High School, Worsley Road, Lytham. 6.30pm. Details, 07584 359310

Quizzes

QUIZ AND KARAOKE. Plus Strike It Lucky. Four Lane Ends, Hawes Side Lane, Marton.

QUIZ NIGHT. The Co-Operative Club, Preston New Road, Marton.

QUIZ AND CASH BINGO NIGHT. Hotel and Apartments Club, Coronation Street, Blackpool.

QUIZ NIGHT AND STRIKE IT LUCKY. Bloomfield Hotel, Ansdell Road, Blackpool.

NEW DUNES QUIZ. The Dunes, Lytham Road, South Shore. 9pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. Featuring Play Your Cards Right. £1 entry. Free buffet. The Boars Head, Preston Old Road, Marton. 9pm.

FUN QUIZ AND JACKPOT RAFFLE. The County Hotel, Lytham. From 9pm.

FUN QUIZ. Meal and drink vouchers to be won. Plus Open The Box. The Shovels, Hambleton.

STEVE JAMES QUIZ NIGHT. Cash prize for winners plus runners up prizes. Bispham Hotel, Red Bank Road, Bispham. 9pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. Drink prizes, snowball minimum £100. Free entry. The Shovels, Common Edge Road, Marton. 9.30pm.

FUN QUIZ NIGHT. Questions and prizes with host Johnny B. The Ship, Elswick. 9pm.

FUN QUIZ NIGHT. Prizes and laughs. Victoria Bar, North Euston Hotel, The Esplanade, Fleetwood. 9pm.

DAVE WARD ROADSHOW QUIZ NIGHT. The Squirrel, Bispham Road, Bispham. From 9.15pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. Bay Horse Hotel, Station Road, Thornton.

QUIZ JACKPOT NIGHT. Minimum jackpot £100. Register by 9pm. The Golden Eagle, Anchorsholme. 9.15pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. Big money prizes, unlock the crock, free to enter. The Queens, Beach Road, Fleetwood.

QUIZ NIGHT AND FUN FORTUNES. The Strawberry Gardens, Fleetwood.

QUIZ NIGHT. Cash prizes, spot prizes and Play Your Cards Right – starting at £100. The Ashley Club, Victoria Road East, Thornton. 8.30pm.

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ. Cash jackpot accumulator. The Rossall Tavern, Larkholme Parade, Fleetwood.

QUIZ NIGHT. Big cash prizes. The Old England, Red Bank Road, Bispham.

QUIZ NIGHT. Devonshire Arms, Devonshire Road, North Shore. Starts 9pm.

Keep fit and exercise

ZUMBA FITNESS. Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Queens Promenade, Bispham. 11am.

ZUMBA FITNESS. Dalmeny Hotel, St Annes. 7.30 to 8.30pm.

PILATES AND ZUMBA. Pilates (5.30pm) and Zumba (6.30pm) with Lindsey Woolstencroft. Thornton Little Theatre, Four Land Ends, Thornton. And Sunday.

OVER 50S EXERCISE CLASS. St Bernadette’s Church Hall, Bispham. 2 to 3pm.Details, (01253) 853295.

AEROBICS. For over 50s. St Bernadette’s Church Hall, Bispham. 2 to 3pm. Details, (01253) 853295.

MUAY THAI/THAI BOXING. Pure Impact Fitness Studio, 34 Dover Court, Dover Road, South Shore. 7 to 8.30pm. Details, (07928) 128674.

ANNE’S LOSE SIZE - RE-ENERGIZE. Lytham Methodist Church, Park Street, Lytham. 12.30 to 1.30pm (aerobics), 5.45 to 6.45pm (salsacise). Details, (07983) 684855.

ZUMBA. With Phoebe. Wesby Hall, Park Street, Lytham. 7 to 8pm.

NEW BEGINNERS WALKS. Walk changes weekly. St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 1.30pm.

PHOENIX TAE KWONDO. New members welcome. White Church Hall, Ansdell. And Monday, 6.30 to 8pm. Details, 07963 104353.

EASY DOES IT. Movement to music. Whiteholme Community Centre, All Saints Road, Bispham. 10am to 10.45am.

PILATES. Whiteholme Community Centre, All Saints Road, Bispham. 11am to noon. St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 1 to 2pm; Blackpool Cricket Club, Stanley Park, Blackpool. 6.15 to 7.15pm. Details, (07738) 434991; Palatine Leisure Centre, St Annes Road, South Shore. 5.30-6.30pm.

Folk, Irish and country

FLEETWOOD FOLK CLUB. Singers’ night - all singers, musicians, poets and storytellers welcome. The Strawberry Gardens, Poulton Road, Fleetwood. admission free, 8.30pm.

Social clubs

DJ CLARKE AND KARAOKE. North Shore Sports and Social Club, Cross Street, Blackpool.

CABARET. Guest acts. Blackpool Catholic Club, 30 Queen Street, Blackpool. 2.30 to 4.30pm. Details, (01253) 628835.

WYRE LEVEE STOMPERS. Thornton Cleveleys Wings Club. 135, Victoria Road West, Cleveleys. Details (01253) 852709.

TERRY ON THE ORGAN. Blackpool RBL Club, 33-39 King Street, Blackpool. Details (01253) 626308.

Pool, poker and sport

POKER NIGHT. Weekly – all welcome. The Plough, Chain Lane, Staining. 7.45pm.

POOL AND POKER. The King Edward, Central Drive, Blackpool. 8pm.

HOLDEM POKER NIGHT. The Queens, Beach Road, Fleetwood. 8.30pm.

Others

AT LAST!. Musical entertainers. 20 Holbeck Avenue, Blackpool 7pm. Details, (01253) 319488

CLEVELEYS JUNIOR CHESS CLUB. Weekly during school term time. Juniors of all abilities welcome. Cleveleys Park Methodist Church, Cleveleys. More details, 07966 231211.

BERYL’S PSYCHIC CLUB. The Old Town Hall, Market Place, Poulton.

ONE ACCORD. New ladies harmony group. New members welcome. Cleveleys Park Methodist Church, West Drive, Cleveleys. From 7.30pm. Details, (01253) 823805.

GIRLGUIDING. Meet for evening of fun, games, challenges, craft, sleepovers and camps. 19th Blackpool Rainbows 4.45 to 5.45pm, Brownies 6 to 7.30pm, Guides 7.30 to 9.15pm, St Marks Church Hall, Westcliffe Drive, Layton; 1st Norbreck Rainbows 5.45 to 7pm, Scout & Guide HQ, Kelvin Road & Carr Road; 3rd Norbreck Guides 6.30 to 8.30pm Beaufort Avenue Methodist Church, Beaufort Avenue, Bispham. Details 352098.

JUST GOOD FRIENDS. A group for people in their 40s and 50s wanting to meet new friends. Wings Club, Victoria Road, Cleveleys. 8pm. Details, (01253) 869519.

AT LAST. Instrumental and vocal ensemble. New members welcome. Brun Grove WM Club, off Ansdell Road, Marton. 1pm. Details, (01253) 319488.

PENCIL AND WATER COLOUR CLASS. All levels, beginners welcome. YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 1 to 3.15pm. Details, (01772) 654461.

POULTON PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY. Catering for photographers of all interests and experience. Poulton Methodist Church, Queensway, Poulton. 7.30pm.

YOUNG AT HEART. Arts, crafts, cooking, guest speakers, flower arranging – and more. All ages welome. S Michael and ll Angels Church, Grange Park. 2pm.

GENERAL PAINTING. 9.30am. Contact Lynne Cray (01253) 317722. Blackpool Art Society. The Studio. Wilkinson Avenue (off Woodland Grove). Blackpool.

BRIDGE CLUBS. Lytham Bridge Club – competitive duplicate bridge. Lytham Bridge Club, Pembroke Road, Lytham. 7.15pm; Clifton Bridge Club, Ansdell Institute, Woodlands Road, Ansdell. 7.30pm.

Book review: A Walk in the Park by Jill Mansell

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:00:00 +0000

If any film-makers out there have never curled up with a Jill Mansell book, then perhaps now is a good time to start.

A Walk in the Park is just the latest of her trademark romantic comedies which seem to gravitate to the top of the best-seller lists like a compass point to magnetic north.

And judging by this sparkling little number, she’s just getting better and better...

Wryly funny, wise and always deliciously on-song, her stories feature the kind of characters we have all met ... or would like to meet.

Take Lara Carson – at the tender age of 13, she was understandably hacked off when her father installed his new love Janice in their home just six months after Lara’s mother died.

It was clear from the start that Lara wasn’t welcome there any more. ‘Why can’t she just join the army or something,’ the lovely Janice was overheard confiding to a friend.

Three years later, life was still grim but she did have the consolation of Flynn Erskine, the handsomest and ‘best boyfriend’ in the world who made up for a lot of the misery in her life.

That is until her father chucked her out for being late home one night and she ended up on the doorstep of Aunt Nettie in Keswick who welcomed her with a big, warm maiden aunt hug and the promise of a new home with her.

There was just one problem... Lara had brought an extra ‘item’ with her baggage, the baby she was expecting to the blissfully unaware and now ex-boyfriend Flynn.

Fast forward over 18 years and Lara and her beautiful and bubbly daughter Gigi have returned to Bath for the funeral of Lara’s father and the unexpected news that his house is now theirs.

Of course, Lara’s return is causing a stir – not least with former best friend Evie who has a lot to catch up on and is on the verge of marrying her ‘bad boy’ dream lover Joel Barber.

There’s also the not insignificant and disturbing re-acquaintance with once adored boyfriend Flynn, now a handsome, mature and be-suited man rather than the dishevelled teenager in a T-shirt that she remembers.

The spark between them is as strong as ever, but how will Flynn react when he discovers the secret she has been keeping from him? There’s a lot of catching up to be done, that’s for sure...

Mansell knows all about life and love, how to make us laugh, how to make us cry and how to keep us reading long after the clocks have struck midnight.

Resourceful Lara, the lovable Gigi and ever-resilient Evie make a terrific starring threesome in a story as full of surprises and drama as it is of comic capers and true romance.

Now turn all these gorgeous goings-on into a film and the likes of Notting Hill and Love Actually would really get a run for their money!

(Headline Review, hardback, £14.99)

Olly to headline finale at Proms

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:27:02 +0000

HEARTS are set to skip a beat when one of pop’s hottest talents invites thousands to dance with him under the gaze of Lytham’s iconic windmill.

Fresh from a sell out arena tour, X-Factor star Olly Murs will top the bill for the final night of this year’s Lytham Proms festival.

And the festival’s St Annes-based organisers couldn’t be more thrilled to have secured the star, who has been part of the Illuminations Switch On ceremony for the last two years.

Olly will headline the Sunday night slot, and a spokesman for Cuffe and Taylor said: “We are thrilled to be bringing Olly Murs to Lytham Proms Festival Weekend.

“We wouldn’t want anyone else to be closing the festival this year.

“Olly is a star, and with a sell-out tour, Brit Award nomination and number one album to his name he is sure to thrill the crowds this summer.”

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Hit singles Dance With Me Tonight and Heart Skips A Beat also went to number one, and Olly is promising fans his “best show of the year” when he takes to the Lytham Green stage.

It’s the singer’s only North West date this summer, and he said: “We’re not going too far down the dancing route – I’ll get a bigger band, build that up. I just want to put on the best show of the year, if I can. I want people to come away feeling it was money well spent.”

Olly joins a host of 80s stars – performing on the Friday night as part of the Here and Now tour – and Saturday headliner, Fleetwood’s very own West End star Alfie Boe, on the bill for this year’s three-night festival, between Friday, August 3 and Sunday, August 5.

The organisers added: “Lytham Proms Festival Weekend has really become a renowned event and one that creates a real buzz in the local area. The event has three very different nights of music and Olly will be a memorable way to close Lytham Proms Festival Weekend 2012.”

Tickets go on sale on Friday. For full details see today’s Gazette.

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Rocket man for festival headland

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:39:26 +0000

It’s Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and Hello Blackpool Headlands – and not before time!

Last time Elton John performed in Blackpool was 30 years ago and the then chairman of Watford Football Club wished Blackpool FC well from his team’s loftier position in the top division.

There have been many changes since Sir Elton last graced a Blackpool stage – two nights at the Opera House in November 1982.

Pinball Wizard, Crocodile Rock, Daniel and even a Beatles medley were part of his electrifying set which left fans clamouring for more – even after three encores.

A spokesman for the venue’s then owners Trusthouse Forte said: “We want to attract as many star names as possible to the resort.”

The fact is Blackpool still does – and with the availability of the Headlands as a live music facility we will continue to do so.

Already lined up are McFly and Wanted. Optimists are still keeping their (sticky) fingers crossed for the Rolling Stones to return now their Blackpool ban is lifted, but in the meantime pop and rock’s greatest showman will certainly do quite nicely, thank you very much.

It’s unlikely his costumes will be quite as flamboyant as they were in 1982 but Elton John is a major coup.

Hopefully one of many to be announced in the not too distant future for a performing area which should finally put Blackpool back in with a chance of luring the calibre of act requiring the kind of audience figures only major big city arenas and open air festivals have been able to boast.

We’ve got the space, we’ve got the accommodation and now we are beginning to once again get the acts.

Bring them on.

A Grand National

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:44:50 +0000

The National Theatre’s West End and Broadway smash-hit comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, is coming to Blackpool Grand Theatre.

Based on the 1743 Italian play Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni, One Man, Two Guvnors replaces 18th century Italy with 1960s Brighton.

Written by Richard Bean and directed by Sir Nicholas Hytner this award-winning play has been hailed as “a glorious celebration of British comedy: a unique, laugh-out-loud mix of satire, songs, slapstick and glittering one-liners.”

Fired from his skiffle band, Francis Henshall becomes minder to Roscoe Crabbe a small time East End hood, now in Brighton to collect £6,000 from his fiancee’s dad… but Roscoe is really Rachel, posing as her own dead brother who ha been killed by her boyfriend Stanley Stubbers.

Holed up at The Cricketers’ Arms, the permanently ravenous Francis spots the chance of an extra meal ticket and takes a second job with one Stanley Stubbers, who is hiding from the police and waiting to be re-united with Rachel. To prevent discovery Francis must keep his two guvnors apart

Richard Bean spent five years as a stand-up comedian before turning his hand to writing and joining BBC Radio’s Control Group Six. His plays include England People Very Nice for the National, Harvest which won the Critic’s Circle Award for Best New Play and a new version of The Hypochondriac for the Almeida Theatre.

Sir Nicholas Hytner became Director of the National in 2003. For the National Theatre he has directed The History Boys, Henry V, His Dark Materials, The Alchemist, Much Ado About Nothing and Hamlet amongst many more. On screen he has directed The Crucible, The Madness of King George and The Object of My Affection along with the highly acclaimed The History Boys. He was knighted in the 2010 Honours for services to drama.

A sell-out on both the West End and Broadway One Man, Two Guvnors has been described in the national press as ‘one of the funniest plays in the National’s history’ and ‘one massive hit.’

Neil Thomson, the Grand Theatre’s CEO said: “I am highly delighted that the National Theatre are returning to The Grand.

“This is the first direct National Theatre tour since The History Boys in 2007 and it is fantastic that the National have recognised the Grand Theatre, and Blackpool, increasing its cultural and quality presence. This is a fantastic opportunity to see the show before it goes down under to Australia in 2013.”

One Man, Two Guvnors is at the Grand Theatre from Tuesday November 27 to Saturday December 1.

Tickets from £12 (before booking fee). Call the box office on (01253) 743339 or click on {http://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk|www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk|Click here to visit the Grand Theatre website}, or visit the Grand Theatre information sales point in the Houndshill Shopping Centre.

Celebrating 20 years of making music together

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:31:38 +0000

Friday’s Fylde Arts Mid Day Recital at Poulton Methodist Church is being given by Rossall School’s director of music Margaret Elizabeth Young (clarinet) and Philip Kubilius (piano) who will be presenting a programme of Brahms and Weber.

Margaret is originally from Preston and excelled in her early years, gaining a grade VIII aged just 11 and with later study achieving a BA Hons and both LRSM and LTCL diplomas.

Since then she has performed as soloist and chamber musician and was also in demand as a teacher. For nine years she was director of music at Cardinal Newman School before taking on the same role at Rossall.

Philip studied at the Royal Manchester College of Music graduating with special merit in performance. He has accompanied many famous singers and instrumentalists and has appeared as soloist and chamber musician.

His work in education includes 24 years as head of keyboard studies at the Blackburn School of Music.

In complete contrast he has also been a teacher of Tai Chi and Qigong for over 30 years.

Friday’s recital celebrates the 20th anniversary of the two artists working together as a duo and the programme includes Brahms (Sonata No 1) and Weber’s Grand Duo.

Starting at 1pm, admission is £7 (£5 Fylde Arts members). Hot lunches are available.

Star names for Grand

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:33:09 +0000

A trio of star names have been confirmed for two of Blackpool Grand Theatre’s future shows.

X Factor finalist Ray Quinn replaces Gareth Gates in The Rise & Fall of Little Voice and Dave Willetts and Marti Webb have been confirmed as the two leads for 42nd Street in July.

Written and directed by Jim Cartwright The Rise & Fall of Little Voice features two national treasures – Beverley Callard (Liz McDonald from Coronation Street) and now Ray Quinn (X Factor, Dancing on Ice, Grease).

Ray Quinn began his career in Brookside but is best known for coming second to Leona Lewis on 2006’s X Factor. Since then he has had a platinum selling album, Doing It My Way. Ray has also had his own nationwide tour as well as appearing on the X-Factor arena tour and winning 2009’s Dancing On Ice.

He recently played Warner in the tour of Legally Blonde, appeared in the West End production of Dirty Dancing and Grease along with other roles in Buster, Me and My Girl and Peter Pan.

Beverley Callard is best known for her role as Liz MacDonald in Coronation Street, who she first played in 1989. Beverley left the soap in 1998 to concentrate on her other career as an aerobics instructor, and to spend more time with her family. In 2001 she joined the cast of Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps and stayed with the series for the next four years. In 2003 she returned to Coronation Street where she stayed until filming her final scenes in April 2011.

The Rise & Fall of Little Voice is at the Grand Theatre from November 19 to 24.

42nd Street returns to the Grand Theatre due to public demand this July, starring West End stars Dave Willetts and Marti Webb.

Winner of the 1980 Tony Award for Best New Musical and the 2001 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, 42nd Street is the timeless, inspiring tale of small town Peggy Sawyer’s rise to fame.

Dave Willetts became interested in amateur dramatics in his 20s and caught the attention of Bob Hamlyn, artistic director of the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry. Hamlyn cast him in Annie and Willetts began his rise to the top.

Trevor Nunn cast him in the chorus of the original London production of Les Misérables and within a year he was understanding Colm Wilkinson in the lead role of Jean Valjean which he took over this role in 1986.

In 1987 he succeeded Michael Crawford in Phantom of the Opera later taking the show on tour. Since then he has appeared in a concert version of Jesus Christ Superstar, taken the lead role in Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd and appeared in the 20th anniversary of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats as well as returning to his role as Jean Valjean for the 10th anniversary production of Les Misérables in Sydney.

Most recently he has appeared in the West End revival of Sunset Boulevard, Aspects of Love and the first UK tour of Legally Blonde.

Marti Webb is best known for her roles in Evita and Tell Me On a Sunday.

In the mid 80s she succeeded Elaine Paige as Grizabella in Cats and in 1995, at 50 she reprised her role in Evita in the UK tour. In recent years Marti has appeared alongside Sheila Ferguson and Rula Lenska in Hot Flush and in 2008 she played Mrs Johnstone in the UK tour of Blood Brothers. During 2010 she starred as Aunt Eller in a UK tour of Oklahoma.

42nd Street is at the Grand Theatre from July 24 to 28.

Book at (01253) 743339, www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk, or the Grand Theatre information sales point in the Houndshill Shopping Centre.

What’s On Wednesday 22nd February

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:32:52 +0000

Don’t miss our What’s On section for all the best in entertainment across the Fylde coast.

Attractions

MADAME TUSSAUDS. The best of British celebrities. More information www.madametussauds.com/blackpool. Central Promenade, Blackpool. 10am to 4.30pm. Details, (01253) 299483

SEA LIFE CENTRE. More information www.sealife.co.uk/blackpool. Golden Mile, Blackpool. Details, (01253) 621258.

BLACKPOOL TOWER BALLROOM. Open daily except for special events. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. Details, (0844) 8561000.

BLACKPOOL TOWER DUNGEON. Open daily. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. (01253) 622242

BLACKPOOL TOWER EYE. Open daily. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. (0844) 8561000

BLACKPOOL TOWER JUNGLE JIM’S. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. Details, (0844) 8561000.

BLACKPOOL MODEL VILLAGE. Take a big look around this tiny world which recreates English life from times gone by. East Park Drive, Blackpool. Open daily 10am. Details (01253) 763827.

BLACKPOOL ZOO AND DINOSAUR SAFARI. Home to more than 400 animals as well as 32 different dinosaurs. Daily from 10am. East Park Drive, Blackpool. Details (01253) 830830.

FARMER PARR’S ANIMAL WORLD. Rare breeds galore. Wyrefield Farm, Rossall Lane and Fleetwood Road, Fleetwood. Daily, 10am to 5pm. Details, (01253) 874389.

PENNY FARM RESCUE & REHABILITATION CENTRE. Meet the horses and ponies. Visitor centre, guided tours. Free entry. Preston New Road, Peel. Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 4pm. Details, (01253) 766095.

RIPLEYS BELIEVE IT OR NOT. Two floors of interactive exhibitions and displays. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, South Shore. Daily from 10am. Details, (0871) 2221234.

Theatre and shows

THE GATEKEEPER. Award winning writer Chloe Moss’ latest – set in the Lake District, a darkly comic tale of one family’s celebratory get together which falls APART. The Studio, Royal Exchange Theatre, St Anns Square, Manchester. To February 25. Box office, (0161) 8339833.

Pubs and bars

THREE DECADES OF DANCE. DJ Kieron with hits from the 60s to 80s. The Mardi Gras, Talbot Road, Blackpool.

PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT. Bar 19 Queen Street, Blackpool. 2 to 6pm.

WICKED WEDNESDAY. With DJ Darrell Lord. Bar 19 Queen Street, Blackpool. 9pm to 4am.

NORTHERN AND SOULFUL SOUNDS. With Mike Hughes. Soul Suite, Queen Square/Queen Street, Blackpool.

KEEP IT FRESH. With DJ Matt Munroe. Walkabout, Queen Street, Blackpool. To 3am.

GET KINECTED. Play against giant versions of yourself. Yates’s, Market Street, Blackpool.

OPEN MIC NIGHT. Churchill’s, Topping Street. Blackpool.

LIVE MUSIC NIGHT. Guest musicians and singer songwriters. The Galleon, Abingdon Street, Blackpool. Free admission.

BRANDY BABYCHAM’S FULL DIAMANTE. Full line-up of female impersonators and vocalists. Free admission. Roxy’s, Queen Street, Blackpool.

PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT. Games night with fun quiz. The Shovels, Green Meadows Lane, Hambleton. 9 to 11.30pm.

Quizzes

TONY’S QUIZ AND PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT. Cash prizes and free sandwiches. The Station Tavern, Lytham. From 9pm.

JOHN KNIGHT QUIZ NIGHT. The Hansom Cab, Station Road, Lytham.

QUIZ AND BINGO. Numbers permitting. Up to £100 to be won. Churchill’s, Topping Street. Blackpool. Afternoon.

QUIZ NIGHT. And Play Your Cards Right. The Shovels, Hambleton.

DJ BASTIAN PLUS QUIZ NIGHT. Lucy’s @ Tobago, Abingdon Street, Blackpool.

QUIZ NIGHT. With the Dave Ward Roadshow. The Tramway, Victoria Road, Cleveleys.

QUIZ NIGHT. Free to enter. Beer to win. The Blue Room, Church Street, Blackpool. From 8pm.

JOHNNY B’s FREE QUIZ. The Ship. Elswick. From 9pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. Whittle Springs, Talbot Road, Blackpool.

QUIZ NIGHT. Prizes for winners, free sandwiches. The Station Tavern, Station Square, Lytham. From 9pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. Plus Open the Box and Play Your Cards Right. The Admiral, Clifton Drive/The Square, St Annes.

QUIZ NIGHT. Stanley Road WMC, Stanley Road, off Hornby Road, Blackpool.

Sport and poker

POKER NIGHT. The Burn Naze, Gamble Road, Thornton.

POKER NIGHT. Frenchman’s Cove, South King Street, Blackpool. From 7.30pm.

LADIES ONLY POKER NIGHT. The Washington, Topping Street, Blackpool.

TEXAS HOLD ‘EM POKER. The Lane Ends, Marton. 8pm.

Social clubs

CABARET. Guest acts. Blackpool Catholic Club, 30 Queen Street, Blackpool. 2.30 to 4.30pm. Details, (01253) 628835.

JAMES ALEXANDER. Brunswick Club, Bethesda Square, Blackpool. Details, (01253) 624208.

Karaoke

KARAOKE. Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Queens Promenade, Bispham.

KARAOKE. A gallon of beer to be won. The Townsman, Topping Street, Blackpool. 3 to 8pm.

KARAOKE NIGHT. The Victoria, Church Road, St Annes.

KARAOKE NIGHT. Free shot for singers before 10pm. The Victoria, Dock Street, Fleetwood.

KARAOKE. Blackpool RBL Club, King Street, Blackpool.

KARAOKE. Daily do it yourself session. Chubby’s Bar, The Promenade, Blackpool. From 9am to 6pm.

KARAOKE. Knobby’s Bar. West Street, Blackpool. And Thursday, Friday and Saturday. From 7pm.

Line dancing

T& A’s DANCE RANCH. All welcome, partners not necessary. Beginners 12.30 to 1.30pm. Teaching and social dancing, 1.30 to 4pm. Bispham United Reformed Church, Cavendish Road, Bispham. Details, (01253) 594043.

LANCASHIRE ROSE LINE DANCE CLUB. Assembly Rooms, Warrenhurst Road, Fleetwood. 7.30 to 10.30pm. Details, 07766 310260.

LINE DANCING. St Annes Conservative Club, Clifton Drive North, St Annes.

LINE DANCING. With John and Marion. Hampton Road Club, South Shore.

Social dancing

TEA DANCE. Langdales Hotel, Clifton Drive North, St Annes. 2 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 721342.

SOCIAL DANCING. Senior Citizens’ Hall, Victoria Road, Cleveleys. 1.30 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 852462.

BALLROOM & SEQUENCE. With John Peate (keyboards) and Dave Miller (drums). Cleveleys Mens Club, Slinger Road, Cleveleys.

PARTNER DANCING. Singles, groups and couples welcome. Fylde Rugby Club, Blackpool Road, Ansdell. Beginners, 7.15pm. Intermediates 8.45pm. Ends 10.30pm. details, 07904 713599.

SEQUENCE. With David and Rita Harrod. Holy Cross Church, Central Drive, Blackpool. 2 to 4.15pm. Details, (01253) 356284.

Other dancing

LADIES BELLYDANCE CLASSES. Beginners 6pm. Intermediate 7pm. Bispham Community Centre, Bispham Road, Bispham. Details, (07709) 723822.

DANCING. Ladies only – all ages, all shapes welcome. Open level. Norcross Civil Service Social Room. Noon to 1pm. Open level. St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 5.45 to 6.45pm. More details, (01253) 394830 or 07811 189980.

JC DANCE CLASSES. Childrens’ dance classes. United Reformed Church, Queensway, Poulton and Womens’ Institute Hall, Great Eccleston. Details, (07792) 410390.

Salsa

SALSA AND AEROBICS. All abilities and ages over 12. Anchorsholme Methodist Church, North Drive, Anchorsholme. 6 to 7.30 and 7.30 to 9pm. Details, 07545 057064.

SALSA DANCING. Beginners welcome. Mammas Too, St Annes. 7.30pm.

NOCHES DE SALSA. Salsa lessons for beginners to advanced. Methodist Church Hall, Kirkham Road, Freckleton. 8 to 9.30pm. Beginners to advanced classes at The Royal British Legion Club, Rough Lea Road, Cleveleys. 7.10pm (beginners) and 8pm (advanced) then dance afterwards until 11pm. Details, (012523) 401941 or 07967 768582.

SALSA DANCING. Free tuition from Joanna. The Tavern, Adelaide Street, Fleetwood.

SALSA. Advanced 8 to 9pm, intermediate 9 to 10pm. St Annes Parish Rooms, St Annes. Details, (0780) 8351436.

SALSA. With Vitelio Ramos. Our Lady’s Parish Centre, St Annes. Details, (01253) 304996.

SIMPLY SALSA. Beginners, improvers, intermediate and advanced lessons and social dancing. St Anthony Padua Social Club, Cadley Causeway, Fulwood, Preston.

Keep fit and exercise

CALLANETICS. All Saints Church, North Drive, Anchorsholme. 5.30 to 7.30pm.

SALSA-CISE. Tiptoes Theatre School, Collingwood Place, Layton. 7.30 to 8.30pm. Details, (07951) 012888.

CLEVELEYS TAEKWONDO CLUB. Juniors (year one and above) – 5.30 to 6.30pm. Teenagers and adults – 7.45 to 9pm. Frank Townend Community Centre, Kensington Road, Cleveleys.

FAMILY FIT PROGRAMME. Fun exercise programme for all the family – children free. Fleetwood Lofthouse YMCA, Fleetwood. 5.30 to 6.30pm. Details, (01253) 882105.

XL FITNESS. Fitness for the fuller figure. Beginners fat-burning aerobics class. Elswick & District Village Hall, Elswick. 6.30 to 7.30pm. Details, (01772) 865645.

YOGA FOR STRESS RELIEF. Five week course. Palatine High School, St Annes Road, South Shore. Details, (01253) 883601.

YOGA/TAI/CHI/PILATES. For posture, strength and flexibility. YIP Centre, Inskip. 8 to 9pm. Details, (01772) 865645.

YOGA. Trained teacher. Suitable for all. The Assembly Rooms, Dicconson Terrace, Lytham. 7 to 8.30pm. Details, (01252) 640247 or (07960) 626836.

TAI CHI. Beginners classes. Wignall Church, Victoria Road East, Cleveleys. 10 to 11am. Details, 0771 501 4018.

MUAY THAI/THAI BOXING. Pure Impact Fitness Studio, 34 Dover Court, Dover Road, South Shore. 8 to 9.30pm. Details, (07928) 128674.

KUNG FU & SELF DEFENCE. VIDA, Garstang Road, Blackpool. 7.30 to 9pm. Details, (01253) 206155.

SHOTOKAN KARATE. For fitness and confidence, eight years plus. Beginners welcome. St Albans Church, St Annes. 7 to 8.30pm. Details, 07989 908135. Also adults and children from 10 years. Palmer Avenue Methodist Church, Blackpool. Also Friday, 7.30 to 9pm. Details, (0780) 1716380.

BLACKPOOL & FYLDE SUB AQUA CLUB. All diver associations and diver levels welcome. Dover Road, Marton. Details, (0790) 820693.

SUB AQUA DIVING. Turn you hand to Try-a-Dive or snorkelling. Fleetwood Leisure Centre, The Esplanade, Fleetwood. 7.45 to 9pm.

PILATES. Senior Citizens Association Hall, Victoria Road West, Cleveleys. From 6.30 to 7.20pm. Details, (01253) 852462;

Chess

CHESS AND WHIST. Senior Citizens’ Hall, Victoria Road, Cleveleys. 12.45 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 852462.

Others

MEDITATION CLASS. Relax, unwind and combat stres. Soma Thweraptry Centre, Hesketh avenue, Bispham. 7 to 8pm. Details, 0783 4072273.

BUDDHIST TEACHING AND MEDITATION. Weekly classes to September 28. Creative Support/Lighthouse Cafe, Crescent West, Cleveleys. From 7 to 8.30pm. Details, (01253) 352721.

DARK HORSE WRITERS GROUP. Weekly creative writing group. Blackpool Catholic Club, Queen Street, Blackpool. 7 to 9pm. Details, (01253) 347556.

JUST GOOD FRIENDS. Fun social group for 35s/50s. Wings Club, Victoria Road, Cleveleys. From 8pm. Details, (01253) 869519. Social group for 40s to 60s. Bispham Conservative Club, Red Bank Road, Bispham. 8.15pm. Details, (01253) 869519.

OVER EATERS ANONYMOUS. Self help group for people with eating disorders. Friends Meeting House, Raikes Parade, Blackpool. Details, (01253) 823418.

PUBLIC SKATING SESSION. The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach. 10am to noon and 1 to 3pm.

SELF DEVELOPMENT CLASS. Learn about past lives, meditate and heal as part of a group. The Fleetwood Arms, Dock Street, Fleetwood. Details, (07722) 539461.

INTRODUCTION TO MEDITATION. Weekly classes. Keajra Buddhist Centre, 64 Holmfield Road, North Shore. 7.30 to 9.30pm. details, (01253) 352721.

CAPRICORN SINGERS. New members welcome. Varied repertoire. Cleveleys Park Methodist Church, Cleveleys. 7.45pm.

POULTON JUNIOR BRASS BAND. Members (8 to14 years) welcome (min 18 months playing experience required). Poulton Band Headquarters, Station Road, Poulton. 6.30 to 7.30pm.

FYLDE COMPUTER CLUB. Enthusiasts always welcome. Lostock Gardens Day Centre, off Clayton Crescent, Blackpool. Second and fourth Wednesday each month, 7.30pm.

BLACKPOOL CIRCUS SCHOOL. Circus training weekly. Beginners, 5.30 to 6.30pm. Advanced, 5.45 to 7.45pm. Sports Hall, Highfield Humanities College. Details, (01253) 735725.

BLACKPOOL ART SOCIETY. Portrait painting. 10am. Life Drawing 2pm. Contact Brian Halliagan (01253) 393552. The Studio. Wilkinson Avenue (off Woodland Grove). Blackpool.

BRIDGE CLUBS. Gazette bridge club – friendly duplicate bridge. The Wainwright Club, Hornby Road, Blackpool. 7pm; Lytham Bridge Club – friendly duplicate bridge. Lytham Bridge Club, Pembroke Road, Lytham. 7.15pm; Clifton Bridge Club – improvers’ night. Ansdell Institute, Woodlands Road, Ansdell. 7.30pm.

GIRLGUIDING. Meet for evening of fun, games, challenges, craft, sleepovers and camps. 1st Bispham Brownies 6.30 to 8pm, Guides 8 to 9.15pm, Scout & Guide HQ, Devonshire Road, Bispham; 3rd Norbreck Rainbows 5 to 6pm, Brownies 6.15 to 7.45pm, Beaufort Avenue Methodist Church, Beauford Avenue, Bispham; 20th Blackpool Brownies 6 to 7.30pm Holy Family Church Hall, Links Road, Claremont. Details (01253) 352098.

The great 208’s Battle of the Giants

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:32:50 +0000

A tribute to Radio Luxembourg’s once hugely popular Battle of the Giants programme is launching its 2012 tour in Lytham – and you could be taking part.

Organisers of Battle of the Giants: The Rock and Pop Years which is at the Lowther Pavilion on Saturday, March 24 want to hear from IDTA dance schools wanting to take part in an Ovaltinies routine and also an Elvis Presley and Cliff Richard tribute to front the “Battle.”

A tribute to the hugely popular Radio Luxembourg 208 show of the same name, Battle of The Giants takes a humorous look back at the music of the 1960s featuring a 14 strong cast of singers, actors, dancers and musicians including Sally Molloy as Brenda Lee.

Battle of the Giants is an interactive audience participation show with audience members choosing the winning Elvis and Cliff act from each performance.

There are also on screen vignettes from television archives and motion graphics featuring a variety of personalities including Sir Cliff Richard, Sir Tim Rice and the late Sir Jimmy Savile talking about what the radio station did for their careers.

With pre-recorded links from Doug Stanley (the original presenter of Battle of the Giants) Tony Prince, Emperor Rosko, Bob Stewart, and off air items from the legendary Kenny Everett, it’s a nostalgic 60s show written and directed by Todd Slaughter and choreographed by Vivienne Shelley. The soundtracks and dancing recreates hits by Elvis, Cliff, The Beatles, The Four Seasons, Brenda Lee and Cilla Black, together with dozens of other golden classics.

At each venue local performers will be invited to compete to be the Best Cliff and the Best Elvis. Auditions will take place prior to the show. The winners from each local contest will appear in a grand final show at the end of the year. Would-be performers should email their details and telephone numbers to battleofgiants@aol.co.uk

You don’t have to look or sing like either Elvis or Cliff, and the competition is open to both men and women – but you MUST be able to sing in tune!

What’s On Tuesday 21st February

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:43:55 +0000

Don’t miss our What’s On section for all the best in entertainment across the Fylde coast.

Attractions

MADAME TUSSAUDS. The best of British celebrities. More information www.madametussauds.com/blackpool. Central Promenade, Blackpool. 10am to 4.30pm. Details, (01253) 299483

SEA LIFE CENTRE. More information www.sealife.co.uk/blackpool. Golden Mile, Blackpool. Details, (01253) 621258.

BLACKPOOL TOWER BALLROOM. Open daily except for special events. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. Details, (0844) 8561000.

BLACKPOOL TOWER DUNGEON. Open daily. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. (01253) 622242

BLACKPOOL TOWER EYE. Open daily. More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. (0844) 8561000

BLACKPOOL TOWER JUNGLE JIM’S. . More information www.the blackpooltower.com. Blackpool Tower, Central Promenade, Blackpool. Details, (0844) 8561000.

BLACKPOOL ZOO AND DINOSAUR SAFARI. Home to more than 400 animals as well as 32 different dinosaurs. Daily from 10am. East Park Drive, Blackpool. Details (01253) 830830.

FARMER PARR’S ANIMAL WORLD. Rare breeds galore. Wyrefield Farm, Rossall Lane and Fleetwood Road, Fleetwood. Daily, 10am to 5pm. Details, (01253) 874389.

RIPLEYS BELIEVE IT OR NOT. Two floors of interactive exhibitions and displays. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, South Shore. Daily from 10am. Details, (0871) 2221234.

Theatre and shows

Folk, Irish and country

MUSIC, SONGS, POEMS AND PINTS. Hosted by Penny Black. The Plough, Chain Lane, Staining. 9pm.

COUNTRY & WESTERN NIGHT. With line dancing. Bispham Conservative Club, Red Bank Road, Bispham.

Pubs and bars

CHILL OUT TUESDAY. With DJ Ric Smith. Bar 19 Queen Street, Blackpool. 9pm to 4am.

OPEN MIC NIGHT. Contact the venue for details of how to take part. Yates’s, Market Street, Blackpool.

FUNKY BOX. With DJ Danny. Walkabout, Queen Street, Blackpool. To 3am.

ANDY KNIGHT’S FREE AND EASY. Buckingham’s, Queen Street, Blackpool. 3 to 5pm.

LIVE MUSIC NIGHT. Guest musicians and singer songwriters. The Galleon, Abingdon Street, Blackpool. Free admission.

Music

SOUNDWAVES LADIES HARMONY CHORUS. Simple singing techniques taught. Springfield Church Hall, Bispham Road, Bispham. 7pm. Details, (01253) 724817.

LYTHAM LIGHT ORCHESTRA. Weekly meeting. Michael Hall Theatre School, Preston Old Road, Marton. 7.30 to 9.30pm. Details, (01253) 696990?

CHOIR PRACTICE. For youngsters aged seven to 17. Chesters Dancing Academy, 19 Victoria Street, Fleetwood. Details, (07989) 144423.

THE ELSWICK SINGERS. New members welcome. Elswick Village Hall, Roseacre Road, Elswick. 7.30pm. Details, (01253) 890209 or (01995) 679312.

GUARDIAN CONCERT BAND. Rehearsals – brass players (grade 5 plus) always needed. Lytham Methodist Church, 4 The Serpentine, Lytham. Weekly, 7.45 to 9.30pm. Details, (0771) 424 1860.

BARBERSHOP HARMONY. New members welcome. Help and teach tapes provided. Brun Grove WM Club, Blackpool. 7.30pm.

Poker and sport

RED TOOTH POKER NIGHT. The Boars Head, Preston Old Road, Marton. 8pm.

MENS’ WORLD POOL LEAGUE. The Burn Naze, Gamble Road, Thornton.

POKER LEAGUE. Weekly points and cash. Free food for players. The Ramsden Arms, Talbot Road, Blackpool.

RED TOOTH POKER NIGHT. Open to all. The Gynn, Gynn Square, North Shore. 7.45pm.

POKER NIGHT. With free supper. The Dunes, Lytham Road, South Shore. From 8.30pm.

DARTS AND DOMINOES. The Albert, Lytham Road, South Shore.

Quizzes

QUIZ AND BINGO. Cash prizes and free supper. Up to £200 to be won. Churchill’s, Topping Street. Blackpool. 9.30pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. And Take Your Pick. Free buffet for contestants. The Washington, Topping Street, Blackpool. 8pm.

FOREST DAVE’S QUIZ NIGHT. Plus cash bingo and free supper. The Clarence, Preston New Road, Marton.

QUIZ NIGHT. And Play Your Cards Right with Mel and Chris. The No 4 & Freemasons, Newton Drive, Blackpool.

CASH QUIZ. Plus free supper.The Farmers Arms, Lytham Road, South Shore.

QUIZ NIGHT. The Air Balloon, Squires Gate Lane, Squires Gate. 9pm.

THE BIG FUN QUIZ. Free sandwiches, cash and other prizes. The Swift Hound, Rigby Road, Blackpool. 9.30pm.

QUIZGO. The Old England, Red Bank Road, Bispham.

QUIZ NIGHT. The Castle Gardens, Fleetwood Road, Carleton. 9pm.

QUIZ NIGHT. The Squirrel, Bispham Road, Bispham.

FUN QUIZ. Win drinks vouchers. Thornton Cleveleys Royal British Legion, Rough Lea Road, Cleveleys.

Karaoke

KARAOKE AND BINGO. Bar 19 Queen Street, Blackpool. 2 to 6pm.

KARAOKE COMPETITION. Weekly heats with semi final on November 29 and final on December 6. Top prize £500. Soul Suite, Queen Square/Queen Street, Blackpool.

KRAZY KARAOKE. With Bonnie La Blue and Collette Ryan. £25 cash prize. Roxy’s, Queen Street, Blackpool.

DJ TIM’S KARAOKE. Prizes for best singers. Lucy’s @ Tobago, Abingdon Street, Blackpool.

KARAOKE. Daily do it yourself session. Chubby’s Bar, The Promenade, Blackpool. From 9am to 6pm.

KARAOKE. Knobby’s Bar. West Street, Blackpool. And Thursday, Friday and Saturday. From 7pm.

KARAOKE. Cleveleys Ex Servicemen’s Club, Victoria Road West, Cleveleys.

Line dancing

ANN’S DANCE RANCH. Line Dancing, easy teaching and social dancing. Bispham Conservative Club, Red Bank Road, Bispham. 8-10.45pm. Details, (01253) 594043.

JULIE’S STEP IN LINE. Wyre Villa Sports Club, Stalmine. 7.30 – 10pm. Details, (01253) 811719.

LIBERTY BELLES LINE DANCING. St Mark’s Church Hall, Westcliffe Drive, Layton. 1 to 3.30pm. Details (01253) 352559/ (07870) 556440.

LANCASHIRE ROSE LINE DANCE CLUB. Trinity Methodist Church, Fleetwood Road, Fleetwood. 2 to 4pm and 7.30 to 10.30pm. Details, (07766) 310260.

SUE O’KENNEDY’S LINE DANCE. Poulton Youth & Community Centre, Breck Road, Poulton. 11.30am to 1am. Details, (01253) 826262.

LINE DANCING. Instruction and dancing, live act last Tuesday each month. Cleveleys WM Club, Slinger Road, Cleveleys. Details, (01253) 594043.

FANCY FEET LINE DANCE. Social dancing and instruction. Holy Trinity Church Memorial Hall, Dean Street, South Shore. 10am to noon. Beginners first hour, social dancing and instruction. The Ashley Club, Victoria Road, Thornton. 7.15 to 10.30pm.

LINE DANCING. Cleveleys Men’s Club, Slinger Road, Cleveleys.

Social dancing

AFTERNOON TEA DANCE. Live music from the Frontline Dance Band. Ticket only or afternoon tea inclusive The Sands Venue, Central Promenade, Blackpool. 2 to 4.30pm.

TEACHING AND MIXED SOCIAL DANCING. Bispham United Reform Church, Cavendish Road, Bispham. 8 to 10.45pm. Details, (01253) 594043.

BALLROOM AND LATIN CLASSES. Beginners (7.30 to 8.30pm), improvers (8.30 to 9.30pm). The White Church, Ansdell. Details, (07909) 945567.

MODERN SEQUENCE. New dances taught. Poulton Community Centre/YMCA, Poulton. 7 to 10pm. Details, (01253) 873122.

AFTERNOON DANCING. With John Peate (keyboards) and Dave Miller (drums). Cleveleys Mens Club, Slinger Road, Cleveleys. 2 to 4pm.

UP TO DATE SEQUENCE. St Paul’s Parish Church, Lake Road, Ansdell. 7.15 to 10.15pm. Details, (01253) 776255.

AFTERNOON SOCIAL AND DANCE GROUP. Sequence dancing. Verona Association. Verona Hall, Fleetwood Road North, Thornton. 1.45 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 865494.

THE FRIENDLY DANCE CLUB. Modern and sequence dancing. Singles and couples, all welcome. Wainwright Club, Hornby Road, Blackpool. 8 to 11pm. Details, (01253) 620555.

SEQUENCE. Senior Citizens Association Hall, Victoria Road West, Cleveleys. From 1.30 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 852462.

MODERN SEQUENCE. New dances taught. St Paul’s Parish Church, Lake Road, Ansdell. 7.15 to 10.15pm. Details, (01253) 776255.

Salsa

SALSA CHEVERE. Salsa classes at all levels followed by social dancing. Marton Institute, Oxford Square, Marton. 7.30pm onwards. Details, 07749 812352.

SIMPLY SALSA CLASS. Beginners from 7pm. Then all levels and social dance. North Shore Golf Club, Devonshire Road, North Shore.

NOCHES DE SALSA. Beginners to advanced 8pm to 9.30pm then dance until 11pm. Co-operative Sports and Social Club, Preston New Road, Marton. Details, (01253) 401941 or (07967) 768582.

SALSA. With Vitelio Ramos. St Thomas’ Church Hall, Caunce Street, Blackpool. Details, (01253) 304996.

Other dancing

TAP DANCING. Adult beginners. Chesters Dancing Academy, 19 Victoria Street, Fleetwood. 8 to 9pm.Details, (07989) 144423.

JC DANCE CLASSES. Childrens’ and adult dance classes. United Reformed Church, Queensway, Poulton. and Norbreck Primary School. Details, (07792) 410390.

DANCE FOR THE UNDER 5’s. Afternoon dance classes. Poulton Youth and Communty Centre, Breck Road, Poulton. Details, (0779) 2410390.

BELLY DANCING. Ladies only – all ages, shapes and levels welcome. Fleetwood YMCA, London Road, Fleetwood. 6.30 to 7.30pm – open level. Details, (01253) 394830 or 07811 189980.

STREET AND BREAK DANCE. Mimi Dance at Thornton Little Theatre, Victoria Road East, Thornton. Under eights, 5pm, over eights, 6pm. 07584 359310

PRESTON CIRCLE DANCE GROUP. Music from around the world. Newcomers always welcome. Galloway Hall, Brackenbury Road, Fulwood. 7 to 9pm. More details, (01772) 793658.

Keep fit and exercise

ZUMBA FITNESS. Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Queens Promenade, Bispham. 11am.

ZUMBA FITNESS. For seniors/beginners. Drive Methodist Church, St Annes. 6.45 to 7.45pm

WYDANCE STRETCH AND BOOGIE. Get fit and loose weight to music from around the world. Led by Jacqueline Greaves from Ludus Dance. No special footwear needed, just enthusiasm. Marine Hall, The Esplanade, Fleetwood. 6 to 7pm. Weekly to April 5.

CALLANETICS. All Saints Church, North Drive, Anchorsholme. 6pm to 8.30pm.

ANNE’S LOSE SIZE - RE-ENERGIZE. Diet and fitness. Victoria Congregational Church, Newton Drive, Blackpool. 6 to 7.30m. Details, (07983) 684885.

SLIMMERCISE. Aerobics, salsa, conditioning, slimming club. The Christian Centre, Waterloo Road, South Shore. 7.30 to 8.30pm. Details, (07795) 030922.

DANCERSIZE. The Therapy House, St Annes. 7 to 8pm. Details, (01253) 403273.

MUAY THAI/FITNESS. Women only. 5.45 to 6.45pm, Pure Impact Fitness Studio, Dover Road, South Shore. Details 07928 128674.

DANCERCISE. 7 to 8pm. Pure Impact Fitness Studio, Dover Road, South Shore. Details 07928 128674.

50+ EXERCISE. St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 9.30 to 11.30am.

POWER WALKS. St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 6.30 to 7.30pm. Route varies.

MEND. Free, fun programme for seven to 13 year old children to become fitter and happier. Fleetwood Lofthouse YMCA, Fleetwood. 5 to 7pm. Also Friday. Details, (01253) 882105.

FAMILY FIT PROGRAMME. Fun exercise for the family. Poulton Community Centre, Breck Road, Poulton. 5.30 to 6.30pm. Details, (01253) 882105.

HATHA YOGA CLASS. Hewitt Room, off Clifton Street, next to the Old Police Station, Lytham. 6.30 to 8 pm. Details, Karen (07989) 985466

YOGA. All abilities. Our Lady of the Assumption Church Hall, Common Edge Road, Blackpool. 7.30 to 9pm. Details, (01253) 640247 and (07960) 626836.

AQUA AEROBICS. Dalmeny Hotel Leisure Club, The Promenade, St Annes. 1 to 2pm. Details, (01253) 716010.

PHOENIX TAEKWONDO. New members always welcome. Kincraig Primary School, Blackpool. 6.30 to 8pm. Details, (07963) 104353.

TAI CHI. Main Hall, St Annes Parish Rooms, St Annes. 8.15 to 9pm. Details, (01253) 315478 and (07976) 773559.

TAI CHI. Beginnners, 10 to 11.30am. St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. Details, (01253) 724117. And Main Hall, St Annes Parish Rooms, Headroomgate Road, St Annes. 8.15 to 9pm. Details, (01253) 315478 or 07976 773559.

Pilates

PILATES. Blackpool Cricket Club, Stanley Park, Blackpool. 6.15 to 7.15pm. Details, (07738) 434991; St Annes YMCA, St Albans Road, St Annes. 1 to 2pm; Dalmeny Hotel Leisure Club, St Annes. 2 to 3pm. Details, Details, (01253) 403273; Marton United Reformed Church Hall, Wordsworth Avenue, Marton. 6.30 to 7.30pm. Details, (01253) 694918.

YOGA/TAI/CHI/PILATES. For posture, strength and flexibility. Details, (07941) 0123053. WI Hall, Great Eccleston. 8.15 to 9.15pm.

Others

BUDDHIST MEDITATION AND ADVICE FOR LIFE. Keajra Buddhist Centre, 64 Holmfield Road, Blackpool. 7.30 to 9pm. Weekly. Details, (01253) 352721.

OFFICIAL HOBBY LEAGUE CLUB. Yu-Gi-Oh! and Pokemon. All ages, player duels, tuck shop on site. Marton Methodist Church, Midgeland Road, Marton. 6 to 8pm. Also Saturday, 5.30 to 8.30pm. Details, (01253) 695334.

CLEVELEYS WRITERS SHORT STORY AND POETS MEETING. Cleveleys Library, Rossall Road, Cleveleys. 1.30 to 3.30pm. Second and fourth Tuesday. Details, (01253) 852147.

PUBLIC SKATING SESSION. The Arena, Blackpool Pleasure Beach. 10am to noon and 1 to 3pm.

BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION. Second and fourth week of the month. Lytham Rugby Club, Ansdell Road, Lytham. 7.30pm. Details, (01253) 293957.

GENERAL PAINTING. From 2pm. And Portrait Painting from 7.30 to 9pm. Blackpool Art Society. The Studio. Wilkinson Avenue (off Woodland Grove). Blackpool. 7.30 to 9pm. Details, (01253) 767667.

GIRLGUIDING. Meet for evening of fun, games, challenges, craft, sleepovers and camps.2nd Bispham Rainbows, 4.45 to 5.45pm, Brownies 6 to 7.30pm, Guides 7 to 9pm, St Bernadettes Church Hall, All Hallows Road, Bispham; 5th Bispham Rainbows, 4.45 to 5.45pm, Brownies 5.45 to 7.15pm, Guides 7.15 to 8.45pm. St Annes Church, Salmesbury Avenue, Bispham; 27th Blackpool Brownies 6 to 7.20pm at Revoe School, Grasmere Road, Blackpool; 29th Blackpool Rainbows 6 to 7pm, Brownies 6 to 7.30pm, Guides 7 to 8.30pm, Layton Senior Section 7.30 to 9pm, Christ the King Youth Centre, Gateside Drive, Layton; 31st Blackpool Brownies 6.30 to 7.45pm, St Kentigerns Church Hall, Newton Drive, Blackpool; Staining Rainbows 5 to 6pm, Brownies 6 to 7.15pm, Staining Scout Hut, Staining Road, Staining. Details: (01253) 352098.

ODEON+CULTURE. The Royal Opera House – Il Trittico. ODEON, Rigby Road, Blackpool. 2pm.

FYLDE ON FILM. Memories of the coast from the North West Film Archive. Lowther Pavilion, West Beach, Lytham. 7.30pm.

Chess and bridge

CHESS AND BRIDGE. Senior Citizens’ Hall, Victoria Road, Cleveleys. 12.45 to 4pm. Details, (01253) 852462.

POULTON CHESS CLUB. All abilities including beginners welcome. Sevenoaks Drive Day Centre, Hobart Place, Cleveleys. 7.30pm. More details, (01253) 899742.

GAZETTE BRIDGE CLUB. Friendly duplicate bridge. The Wainwright Club, Hornby Road, Blackpool. 7pm.

LYTHAM BRIDGE CLUB. Friendly duplicate bridge. Lytham Bridge Club, Pembroke Road, Lytham. 1.30pm.

BISPHAM CHESS CLUB. New members welcome. Community Centre, Bispham Road, Bispham. 7.30pm. Details, (01253) 300918.

CLIFTON BRIDGE CLUB. Ansdell Institute, Woodlands Road, Ansdell. 7.30pm.

Social clubs

DJ KEIRAN. And karaoke. North Shore Sports and Social Club, Cross Street, Blackpool.

CABARET. Guest acts. Blackpool Catholic Club, 30 Queen Street, Blackpool. 2.30 to 4.30pm. Details, (01253) 628835.

MAGGIE & CHRIS. Stanley Road WMC, Stanley Road, (off Hornby Road), Blackpool. Details, (01253) 621168.

BOBBY TAYLOR. Duple Social Club, 96a Bond Street, South Shore. Details, (01253) 341647.