We joined tour guide Stephen Mercer for a behind-the-scenes look at the beautiful venue to capture it at finest. It was also an opportunity to see intricate work going on inside the Renaissance Room, during its extensive restoration, to experience what it's like under the stage and to reveal parts which theatre-goes can’t access. There’s even a bathroom fit for royalty. Gazette photographer Dan Martino was there to capture these unique scenes.
In case you missed them: The hidden garden space you never see: 15 extraordinary pictures which show Blackpool Pleasure Beach's best kept secret beneath the rollercoasters
1. Winter Gardens tour
Alison Skelly painting gold leaf in the Renaissance room. Initially the room's primary use was as a restaurant and high class cocktail bar both standalone but also for use by people visiting the theatre and Empress Ballroom Photo: Daniel Martino
2. Winter Gardens tour
The Opera House iconic art-deco design is stand-out Photo: Daniel Martino
3. Winter Gardens tour
The Winter Gardens has its very own Royal Bathroom Photo: Daniel Martino
4. Winter Gardens tour
The intricate workings back stage have kept the lights glowing and music flowing for more than a century Photo: Daniel Martino
5. Winter Gardens tour
The statue of Morecambe and Wise in the foyer Photo: Daniel Martino
