'We're immensely proud' - Blackpool Grand Theatre wins national award for workplace culture

Blackpool Grand Theatre has received national recognition for its commitment to the people behind its performances after winning the Excellence in Workforce Culture Award at the 2026 UK Theatre Awards.

The award was presented at a ceremony in London on Monday, 12 October, celebrating achievements across the UK theatre industry. The historic Frank Matcham-designed theatre was shortlisted alongside Swindon Theatres and Wales Millennium Centre, securing the accolade for its efforts to create a positive and supportive working environment.

The award recognises the dedication and expertise of the staff, volunteers and collaborators whose work supports the theatre’s performances, creative learning, participation and community activities, both on stage and behind the scenes.

The Grand Theatre is a Disability Confident Committed employer and a partner in Ramps on the Moon, an initiative that champions greater representation and opportunities for Deaf and disabled people in theatre.

The latest accolade adds to the Grand’s growing list of national awards, including the 2023 UK Theatre Award for Excellence in Arts Education, reflecting its longstanding investment in young people, creative learning and the local community.

Its Grand Young Technicians programme, led by Technical Stage Manager David Renwick and his team, has introduced more than 40 young people to backstage careers. Participants have progressed into their first paid theatre roles and opportunities through the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Next Generation Technical partnership.

Apprenticeships, leadership development and progression routes into training and employment also form part of the theatre’s commitment to developing talent. The Grand is also a Real Living Wage employer, a commitment it considers particularly important in a town experiencing significant socio-economic challenges.

This award belongs to our whole team

Adam Knight, Chief Executive of Blackpool Grand Theatre, said, "We are immensely proud to receive the UK Theatre Award for Excellence in Workforce Culture. Blackpool Grand is a theatre that inspires a lifelong love of theatre, and we are equally committed to the lifelong learning and development of everyone who works and participates here.

“From a care-experienced young person taking their first paid front-of-house role, to a Youth Tech member operating a follow-spot for pantomime, to colleagues and volunteers who have devoted decades to The Grand, we welcome people of every background and experience and give them the opportunity to shine.

“This award belongs to our whole team - from those who make the building shine from 7am to those loading out shows at 3am in the wind and rain, and everyone in between - as well as our Trustees, Friends, freelance partners and supporters.

“We receive it with particular pride in memory of John Grady, Chair of our Friends, whose remarkable 45 years of voluntary service embodied the very best of The Grand. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who makes Blackpool Grand such a terrific place to work, participate and bring world-class theatre experiences to life, and to UK Theatre for this deeply meaningful recognition.”

Looking ahead, the theatre aims to ensure its historic building reflects the inclusive culture fostered by the people who work within it.

The physical constraints of the Victorian theatre continue to create barriers for disabled artists, audiences and colleagues. The Grand is working to address these challenges through consultation with colleagues, audiences, partners and the wider community.

The work aims to shape and secure investment in a more accessible future, removing physical barriers while protecting the beauty and heritage of one of the country’s most important historic theatres for generations to come.