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Billy's show mates
The last time a ukulele player topped the bill at a Blackpool venue was probably George Formby
But even the indomitable Lancastrian would have been pushed to think it had turned out quite so nice again if he'd then had to dance, join in magic illusions, play a guitar solo, take part in duets and deliver a stand up routine with enough one liners to keep Ken Dodd on his toes.
As one of the last of the true all rounders Billy Pearce conscientiously and confidently turns his talents to all of the above – just give him a paint brush and a pot of emulsion and he'd probably finish off the decorating too.
A Blackpool favourite for years – his first big breaks came at the Grand – the last couple of seasons have seen him establish his weekly variety bill as one of the resort's few must see summer shows and whilst the core of his act is no doubt familiar to his loyal fan base, there's so much actually in it that it requires several visits to take it all in.
Pacing the stage with a bundle of nervous energy he warms up the proceedings, rattles out the gags like a comedy machine gun and keeps the energy level on boiling point right through to an unlikely Elvis "tribute."
His comic alter ego may tour with an adult version of his act but for Blackpool it's a full on family show – underscored by a supporting bill which has something for just about everyone.
Each successive season sees this touring show (it's in Scarborough every Monday and Blackpool on Tuesdays) more honed and this one rattles along with Billy rarely more than a few minutes away from the stage.
Guest vocalists this year are Leanne Fury and Neil Hurst. The former is already a firm Blackpool favourite with diminutive build and a huge voice she is equally at home on uptempo disco dance numbers as she is with ballads and soul material.
Scarborough's Neil Hurst is another useful addition to the line-up with a good mix of Michael Buble and beyond and, like Leanne, able to turn on the laughs when called upon to join Billy's comedy numbers.
Blackpool's Guy Barrett (son of former ringmaster Norman) has evolved into one of the country's most impressive illusionists - though it's his assistant Sarah who seems to do most of the work.
His largish scaled illusions involve plenty of painful looking squeezing, comings and goings from confined spaced, all carried out with maximum smoothness– until Billy becomes involved.
As well as his own lively Showcase Dancers, Billy this year fills the stage with a talented team of youngsters from Blackpool's Scream Theatre schools, shining a valuable spotlight on the future of entertainment.
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Weather for Blackpool
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Light snow
Temperature: 2 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 22 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 3 C to 7 C
Wind Speed: 16 mph
Wind direction: West
