It’s 65 years since the Queen first came to Blackpool for the Royal Variety Performance. The occasion was also another first as the show had never been staged anywhere outside London and was a real coup for Blackpool. Fast forward 54 years to 2009, and all the glitter and sparkle returned for a second time. Dance troupe Diversity, pop star Lady Gaga and Katherine Jenkins were just a few of the big star names who performed.
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The Queen arrives at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, for the The Royal Variety Performance. Prince Phillip jokes with Frankee Carson (6), Tara Carson (8) and Hannah Carson (10)
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The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh’s first visit to Blackpool for the Royal Variety Performance, 65 years ago
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Tower organist Reginald Dixon talks to the Queen and Prince Philip at the Opera House in 1955