I danced across Blackpool stages for 22 years and now I help visitors love the town too
Sandy Griffiths a beloved Visitor Information Assistant at Blackpool’s Tourist Information Centre, has lived a life that reads like a showbiz fairy tale.
Sandy Griffiths shared stories spanning decades of Blackpool’s entertainment scene from childhood ballet to iconic comedy stages.
Her performing career began at age three at her cousin’s dance school, but by 12, she was auditioning for The Blackpool Tower Children’s Ballet.
Sandy said: “I sang on the sunny side of the street. We ate our sandwiches in the roof gardens, rehearsed on the ballroom floor, and had lovely costumes. There were strict rules, but it was wonderful.”
Under the watchful eyes of mentors Sandy progressed through the company’s ranks, learning both discipline and stagecraft.
At 16, she joined the Tower Circus under choreographer Mary Kan, performing alongside Charlie Cairoli in a memorable bridesmaid scene.
She said: “We were part of the comedy act all season. It was such fun. Her summers also included shows at Pleasure Beach and on the North and South Piers, she worked with household names such as Mike and Bernie Winters, Andy Stewart, and Linda Nolan, among others.
In her 30s, Sandy joined the famous Roly Polys, the dance troupe created by comedian Les Dawson. What was meant to be a six-week stint turned into 16 years of performances, including a spot at the 1987 Royal Variety Show.
She said: “Les wanted dancers of all shapes and sizes. He welcomed me and Pat personally, and it was such a happy time.”
After decades on stages across Blackpool, from the Winter Gardens to the ABC, Sandy traded glittering lights for guiding visitors.
For 22 years and counting, she’s been sharing her love of the town with tourists becoming a cherished local figure.
She said: “Every theatre I’ve worked in holds a special place in my heart. Today, Sandy Griffiths’ story isn’t just about dance and shows - it’s about the joy, dedication and enduring spirit of a true Blackpool legend.