Emotional stars including Little Boots and John Robb react after Blackpool's amazing People's Stage concert

The People’s Stage concert was a roaring success on Sunday night, uniting the town of Blackpool in its bid to become the UK City of Culture 2029.

The Gazette caught up with some of the event’s performers to get their thoughts on the special evening.

Little Boots

“I find it such an inspiring place to me. And also, you know, we just have so much going on, there's so many incredible shows, there's so much stuff going on that you don't get anywhere else.

“It wasn't until I've been all over the world, that I realised what a special place this is. I really do believe we deserve it, and it will be such a huge deal for the people.

“My grandfather was actually mayor of Blackpool when I was growing up, and I remember coming here to the Winter Gardens for the Mayoral Ceremonies. I think I was about 6, but I have really strong memories of being in Blackpool for that. Now I’m coming to play here, and I've brought my little boy to see me in concert for the first time, so it’s an amazing experience that feels quite emotional.”

Saul Davies

“It means a lot to me to be able to play at this event. There’s a lot of artists who have dedicated their time, effort and expertise to making this a success.

“This is all part of the bid to get Blackpool as the City of Culture 2029- my job is to put on a world class event, engage with people locally and make a case for Blackpool to be a place where artists can come and work.”

John Robb

“I don’t think it’s a case of if, we win the City of Culture bid I think it’s a when. I looked at all the other towns and I think Blackpool is the best. There’s a unique culture here-, there’s a lot of cool things coming into Blackpool and there’s a lot of good things happening here.

“Progress is in the motto of this town, and we want to keep it moving forwards.”

Rae Morris

“The more I think about it, the more I realise that Blackpool’s people deserve this so much. After hundreds of years provoking culture and setting trends, and being this capital of individualism. It feels like it’s time for people to celebrate and yes, we deserve to celebrate and be recognised.

“It’s really emotional to be a part of. I’ve found the experience quite thought provoking and overwhelming, because I grew up here. To perform on the stage of the Opera House is a huge deal to me, and it’s so nice to see other artists giving their time and effort to put on a show for the people that live here. I feel proud and happy to be part of this, but I'm mostly very honoured to be from Blackpool and to be here today.”

Lynn Williams

“Last night was something really special. It was one of those occasions that reminded us exactly why we are so proud of Blackpool. It wasn't just a fantastic concert, it was a celebration of who we are. We saw world-class artists sharing the stage with local talent, an audience full of people who care deeply about this town, and an atmosphere of optimism, pride and togetherness. Our City of Culture bid is about so much more than a title.

Darrell Smith

“To play here, in this town- a town I used to visit as a child for fun, is incredible. Hopefully the bid for the City of Culture will be successful because it’s exactly what the town needs, and I’m very passionate about it.

“Performing in the Winter Gardens is something I could only have dreamed of not even three years ago. I played in the Empress Ballroom about six weeks ago, and now I’m playing in the Opera House tonight. It is incredibly special to be able to perform in a venue like this, in a place that I’ve been to before and with numerous people who I really admire in the music industry.”

Click hereto Back the Bid for Blackpool as UK City of Culture 2029.