Hidden Secrets Of Blackpool's Grand Theatre | Up In The Rafters!

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  • Опубліковано 3 гру 2022
  • Exploring behind the scenes at the Grand Theatre in Blackpool, uncovering all of it's history and Hidden Secrets. We visit many areas that the public don't get to see, such as the loft spaces, basement levels and the fly tower.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 158

  • @Michael-ky7sr
    @Michael-ky7sr Рік тому +26

    you know, i started watching your channel at the beginning of this year with my grandad, both blackpool locals born and bred. i used to care for him 4 mornings a week and we'd get breakfast, sit and watch whatever video you'd uploaded and he'd sit and fill in the gaps, the things inbetween the photos and videos you'd taken, stories of the people in the photos or of the places here and gone. he dided in august but your videos make me feel close to him still... thanks man.

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому +5

      Thanks Michael. Sorry to hear that. But comforting to hear it helps.

    • @Michael-ky7sr
      @Michael-ky7sr Рік тому +1

      @@AdventureMethe winter gardens had us the most curious. i also used to spend a lot of time in the grand, my grandma was a performer during Blackpools golden age of arts and a teacherr later in life, i wasnt expecting to be thrown back so much, havnt seen the interior of this building since i was about 16. ANOTHER 10/10 video.

    • @shirleysmith1713
      @shirleysmith1713 Рік тому

      Lovely memories of your grandad 👍🏻💙

    • @Canthatcrazy
      @Canthatcrazy Рік тому

      🥰

  • @andyrichardsvideovlogs8835
    @andyrichardsvideovlogs8835 Рік тому +9

    Absolutely fascinating. I 've not been in the Grand since 1965 when I saw a Summer Season comedy production Freddie Frinton and Thora Hird. In those days, the decor was burgundy plush, albeit a bit jaded with wear. We were sat in the Lower Circle, which was not too daunting for those of us with a fear of heights.
    The Grand's cantilever design was allegedly the prototype for the world famous London Palladium.

  • @shirleylynch7529
    @shirleylynch7529 Рік тому +1

    Beautiful theatre. What a treasure. That was amazing Darren. Thank you

  • @Thurlby99
    @Thurlby99 Рік тому +2

    Another brilliant video and history Darren of a lovely place. Always nice to see the things the public never get to see.

  • @paulstringer5327
    @paulstringer5327 Рік тому +2

    Thanks Darren for yet another fantastic trip into a place I seen and been in. I now know more about this place than I have done after living in Blackpool for 30 years. Looking forward to part 2.

  • @butchknapman3939
    @butchknapman3939 Рік тому

    In so many of these old buildings what the public don't see is so many times more interesting than what they do see keep up the good work

  • @mikekenworthy
    @mikekenworthy День тому

    I'm going to this theatre tomorrow, The haunting of Blaine Manor. Now I know what I have to look forward to, thank you:)

  • @damedavidfrith55
    @damedavidfrith55 Рік тому +1

    🎉thanks for another cracking vlog very interesting story ,you never know how much goes on in a theatre till you can get a tour of back stage

  • @NickJay
    @NickJay Рік тому +4

    Looking forward to part 2 when it comes. I love old theatres and so pleased this one was saved! Just a shame many weren't so fortunate. :(

  • @kennethtarran1525
    @kennethtarran1525 Рік тому +3

    That was an outstanding video Darren. You must have many friends in Blackpool to allow you into these hidden nooks and crannies that you video so capably. I hope these series that you have done for your UA-cam channel eventually find their way into Blackpool's archives for future generations to see.
    I have been in the Grand several times to various shows and comedy plays, but to see behind the auditorium is really amazing. Congratulations on your videoing dexterity! Looking forward very much to the next episode.

  • @jetsons101
    @jetsons101 Рік тому +2

    The steps on the Upper Circle are a bit of a steep step down, "don't trip." The Gallery seats are so high up some must have gotten nose bleads or needed oxygen tanks. Darren, all kidding aside, what a great piece of history. The work and craftsmanship really shows, think of the hours just spent on the plaster work, keep a eye out for roof leaks. You show such pride in keeping your local and reginal history alive. Thank again for your time, effort and hard work you put into your videos.....

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому +1

      Thanks Mike

    • @jetsons101
      @jetsons101 Рік тому

      @@AdventureMe Will have coffee or tea at the ready for part 2.

  • @jerrywallop5647
    @jerrywallop5647 Рік тому +1

    Excellent Darren …….the lengths you go to to keep us all fascinated………Thankyou……..👍👍

  • @mousecharger
    @mousecharger Рік тому +1

    All those little details above stage..been many times, scared of heights but end up upper circle lol..cannot wait for this series x

  • @gordonwebster3809
    @gordonwebster3809 Рік тому +1

    what a beautiful theatre well worth the effrt restoreing it

  • @a11csc
    @a11csc Рік тому +1

    what a delightful place behind the scenes darren

  • @johnbrice2842
    @johnbrice2842 Рік тому +1

    yes i have been there,this was a very very interesting film ,thank you and well done

  • @deborahleach9106
    @deborahleach9106 Рік тому +1

    Very interesting Darren. The shots showing how high up you were spooked me so you must be brave to go up there! Looking forward to part 2!

  • @kevinmott6205
    @kevinmott6205 3 місяці тому

    Saw Sykes Jaques and Gyler at Grand in 1977 about 30 in audience they were brilliant x

  • @douglasthompson296
    @douglasthompson296 Рік тому +1

    Hi Darren, terrific can't wait for pt2. Got to admit though all your height and wobbly bridges chat had my scroat drawing up tightly too 🧐. Cheers DougT

  • @rontanser9369
    @rontanser9369 Рік тому +2

    Wow that was brilliant thank you

  • @ffrancrogowski2192
    @ffrancrogowski2192 Рік тому

    A great experience seeing all of this video, Darren. There's so much to a theatre like this with all the workings of the stage and whatever. Matcham's architecture was surely the best that you could ever come across in Britain, and most certainly shows within this building. Many thanks, and looking forward to the next episode.

  • @ronnievenhorst9873
    @ronnievenhorst9873 Рік тому +1

    Another great video and very interesting. I'm already looking forward to the next part

  • @waynepaxford7263
    @waynepaxford7263 Рік тому +1

    Excellent video I enjoyed this video Darren with great information and the history was great can't wait for next video I hope you and your family and friends are well and safe

  • @lindseykaine-walley6339
    @lindseykaine-walley6339 Рік тому

    Thank you for showing us behind the scenes of the theatre. And braving the ladder upwards! I will soon know more about Blackpool than my own city!! Looking forward to the next one as always Darren 👍

  • @jack_timber
    @jack_timber Рік тому +2

    Been there a few times, last time was to see Cannon and Ball, now that dates my last visit. 🤔😱

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому +2

      Sure does. Then I feel old too. I saw them too.

    • @EgoShredder
      @EgoShredder Рік тому

      @@AdventureMe Same circa 1982-ish and even had the braces, although Bobby must have had them modified, because mine were standard with the metal clasp adjusters, and that blinkin' hurt if slapped against your chest with your thumbs! 😂😂🤣

  • @brianscales9912
    @brianscales9912 Рік тому

    Another very interesting video Darren. The last time we was in here was to see the late great Ken Dodd. I remember leaving with an aching belly, due to all the laughing! 👍❤️

  • @RobinHullBuilds
    @RobinHullBuilds Рік тому

    Hey Darren
    Another wonderful video. Your passion is what makes these behind the scenes adventures so enjoyable!

  • @shirleysmith1713
    @shirleysmith1713 Рік тому

    Just brilliant Darren , so interesting the history of the Grand Theatre. Never seen the very old photo of the Grand Theatre before . Thanks 👍🏻🎄

  • @martinmarsola6477
    @martinmarsola6477 Рік тому +1

    Another great tour into the past to the present. Thanks for the tour today, Darren. Cheers mate! 🇬🇧👍🙂🇺🇸

  • @christopherjordan4812
    @christopherjordan4812 Рік тому +1

    Very interesting Darren. It would be interesting to know how the light bulbs get changed so far up in the auditorium .

  • @zoltar666pz
    @zoltar666pz Рік тому

    As always great video from you Darren we have just come back from Blackpool & I now see Blackpool in a different light you have me looking up & exploring new places that I would never go for that I say thank you as I have been coming to Blackpool since 1965 a very very long time since i was 5 years old

  • @calimonkey1836
    @calimonkey1836 Рік тому

    Excellent work Darren - As ever very well researched with great footage, look forward to part two.

  • @elliottg.1954
    @elliottg.1954 Рік тому

    Awesome video. It's great that we can see around these places - and discover secrets - through you. You are doing a grand job and we look forward to more of the same 👍

  • @malcolmrichardson3881
    @malcolmrichardson3881 Рік тому

    Amazing place and superb restoration project of an iconic theatre landmark. I bet the seats are rather more comfortable, with more leg-room than back in the day! They don't do ornate decoration like that anymore, either. Fantastiic! Great video! Thank you!

  • @simongee8928
    @simongee8928 Рік тому

    Frank Matcham was THE theatre designer of his era. Absolutely unparallelled in his designs, colour schemes and embellishments. So sad that there are so few of his many masterpieces still in existence.

  • @thebigrighthand7728
    @thebigrighthand7728 Рік тому +1

    Arthur askey, the love match, my dad made us watch it, it was a decent black&White film

  • @atiny4lyfe8m1
    @atiny4lyfe8m1 Рік тому

    Lovely video! Really enjoyed all the lil trivia tid bits as well .

  • @Dan23_7
    @Dan23_7 Рік тому +1

    I’m here 👍🏼
    Brew in hand
    Edit: That was really interesting Darren, so much so I forgot about my coffee 😂
    I love seeing the workings and bare bones of these, like you did at the winter gardens. I can’t wait for pt 2
    Thanks a lot 👍🏼

  • @amc5966
    @amc5966 Рік тому

    Another fantastic video Darren. Loved this. My kids were in there at the Pantomime earlier.

  • @oddsandwindsocks5905
    @oddsandwindsocks5905 Рік тому

    Hi Darren, enjoyed that one , looking like another great quality series.

  • @ste.h9825
    @ste.h9825 Рік тому

    Looking forward 2 next video.Thanks for showing another hidden gem.Cheers Darren.👍

  • @minuteman747
    @minuteman747 Рік тому

    Brilliant again .. thank you 👍

  • @raymondlee4767
    @raymondlee4767 Рік тому

    Interesting video Darren, I don't have head for heights either great stuff.

  • @barrieshepherd7694
    @barrieshepherd7694 Рік тому

    Great content, can't wait for Part 2 - wish I had been there 🤣 If you have extra footage - or opportunity to get some - a study of the operations, particularly stage movement and lighting control would be fantastic Part 3 maybe?
    Is the original iron still there or is it now a modern replacement?

  • @iomjames
    @iomjames Рік тому

    This is brilliant! I work on occasion at another Matcham here on the Isle of Man, it’s cool to be able to compare the differences and the similarities. Thanks and I’m looking forward to the next instalment

  • @markosmith8037
    @markosmith8037 Рік тому

    Excellent !

  • @paulharvey9149
    @paulharvey9149 Рік тому +2

    Oh Darren, I can see that despite your fear of heights, you do like a good shaft and that even the gentlest little tug is enough to get you up and down! At least it keeps you fit, huh?

    • @EgoShredder
      @EgoShredder Рік тому +1

      That's enough innuendo for one day! 😂😂🤣

    • @douglasthompson296
      @douglasthompson296 Рік тому +3

      Nah it's Blackpool where any innuendo is acceptable 😎😂

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому +5

      You sound like a Blackpool Postcard lol

    • @douglasthompson296
      @douglasthompson296 Рік тому +1

      @@AdventureMe nothing wrong with a mucky Blackpool post card Darren, in fact V Meldrew and Mrs Warboy have a good collection, good enough for Antiques Roadshow, no less. Cheers DougT

    • @paulharvey9149
      @paulharvey9149 Рік тому

      @@AdventureMe I blame the grandmother - we were always losing her on our holidays back in the day, because she'd stopped to read the saucy postcards outside some shop way behind!!

  • @KeithHambidge
    @KeithHambidge Рік тому

    Just when you think Blackpool has nothing left to offer another documentary along comes the Grand Theatre, fascinating insight to another great building
    Great work 👍

  • @peter_robinson
    @peter_robinson Рік тому

    Very interesting video! I find theatres especially the Winter Gardens Opera House and the Grand Theatre interesting, always have done. Looks very dark up above the stage. The ceilings look very decorative too, must be scary looking down while working on those from above. Great video!

  • @mrsgenehunt48
    @mrsgenehunt48 Рік тому

    Makes you appreciate just how much goes on in the background to put on a show. I always thought I had a head for heights, but there were parts in the video that made me feel a bit wobbly. You did exceptionally well to get all the footage. Looking forward to the next.

  • @kevinmott6205
    @kevinmott6205 3 місяці тому

    Love this space ❤

  • @davidberlanny3308
    @davidberlanny3308 Рік тому

    Great trip backstage really interesting. Just had a quick read up on Matcham and Wikipedia tells me he was also responsable for the Kings Theatre in Southsea. Great video, look forward to part 2
    Good luck from Spain!!

  • @braggelbak
    @braggelbak Рік тому

    amazing!

  • @sarahillingworth2718
    @sarahillingworth2718 Рік тому

    Enjoyed the video, you do a great job.. all the best.

  • @simongee8928
    @simongee8928 Рік тому

    Agree ref the view from a theatre box. Had one at the Norwich Theatre Royal many years ago and we couldn't see about one third of the stage thus missing a fair bit of the pantomime.
    The boxes have since been 'removed' in a later refurbishment.

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому

      The boxes were there for you to be seen, not to see the show.

  • @colinevans39
    @colinevans39 Рік тому

    M8 amazing thank you so much for your love and details so inspiring I've been to Blackpool so many times but you have uncovered so much interesting stuff aww inspiring thanks keep up the good work revealing the secrets that make people interested in life I love the unknown 🙄🙄🙄😊😳

  • @MrChrisBarker
    @MrChrisBarker Рік тому

    Another great video.

  • @nicklowe536
    @nicklowe536 Рік тому

    Another amazing behind the scenes tour. Frank matcham also did the Blackpool tower circus . That an amazing designer

  • @cyberleaderandy1
    @cyberleaderandy1 Рік тому

    Really interesting. Ive been to a lot of shows at Blackpool, on the Piers and elsewhere but i cant remember ever going to the Grand. Its a shame as its a lovely theatre.

  • @eddywells5689
    @eddywells5689 Рік тому

    Wow another incredible video you never disappoint the only performance I've seen was phantom of the opera on ice !!!! 💞💞💪💪👍🇫🇷🙏🙏🍺🍺

  • @hollimurray8856
    @hollimurray8856 Рік тому +1

    Amazing video again 😊 this was Ken Dodd's second home he is very much missed. 😔

    • @shirleysmith1713
      @shirleysmith1713 Рік тому

      Seen Ken Dodd several times. Always a packed theatre. We miss Doddie too🥲

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому

      Thanks Holli

  • @Robby334
    @Robby334 Рік тому

    Just to say that all your clips are fascinating

  • @nixtax3526
    @nixtax3526 Рік тому

    Really interesting mate

  • @alexgray7422
    @alexgray7422 Рік тому

    Just subscribed! Really interesting video 👍 I'd like to visit all the Frank Marcham theatres 🎭

  • @BillyButlin123
    @BillyButlin123 Рік тому

    Hello, I’ve seen most of your videos and love them. Just watched the Blackpool Grand, everything was fine till you went up into the loft space and looked down me legs went a bit giddy. For a chap that doesn’t like heights you are quite the brave one. It looks similar to the Buxton Opera House, turns out Thatcham designed that one as well. Keep up the great work, it’s beyond interesting.

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому +1

      Thanks. I was ok as I was on a metal structure. Had it been open, I would have been crying lol

  • @trailblazer8128
    @trailblazer8128 Рік тому +1

    Please show the old bar from Blackpool Central station in part 2 !

  • @Dave1976.
    @Dave1976. Рік тому

    Fantastic vlog as always Darren. I've seen many shows here in the past. Guess what....? I've even performed on The Grand Stage. The theatre is steeped in history. You will know this bit, there's rumours about a ghost as the guy who painted the ceiling died from his ladder and in the past, has been rumoured to be seen. You can go under the stage from left to right vice a versa. I've seen the Metal curtain come down in front of the main curtain. I've been in the changing rooms in the back and in the other rooms past where you entered the main room for the curtains. I use to be in an Blackpool operatic society and did many shows. Also was with a dance school which my sister was in. I've got pictures and videos of us on The Grand. I've seen a lot here behind the theatre. But not as much as what you have showed us. Can't wait for part 2. 5*****

  • @andykopgod
    @andykopgod Рік тому

    Absolutely fascinating, what a grand building, wonder if its got its own ghost 👻

  • @lynnballington8467
    @lynnballington8467 Рік тому

    Hello Darren how are you love your videos I find them very interested I use to go to the grand yhertie with my mum and dad best wishes take care stay safe xx

  • @74missey
    @74missey Рік тому

    the 1st thing that popped into my head was the phantom of the opera 😂

  • @Lighting_Desk
    @Lighting_Desk Рік тому

    Reminds me quite a lot of the Tyne Theatre and Opera House in Newcastle upon Tyne.

  • @sampoole9549
    @sampoole9549 Рік тому

    Thanks for braving those stairs to show us what's up there. Rather you than me 😬

  • @ElijahBradley08
    @ElijahBradley08 Рік тому

    Hi Darren, I remember a while ago you made a series on the east and west Yorkshire union railway, I happen to live next to where Rothwell station used to be, so I was curious about the railway, and I have found one of the locomotives that ran on the line which is currently located on the Ecclesbourne railway its number is 1884/55, if you were interested I've also discovered that in the bushes near my house there are two goods wagons near the horse field, not in great shape but they are there.

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому

      Thanks Elijah. Yes I very much enjoyed doing that series being local. Thanks for the info.

  • @k9slayer
    @k9slayer Рік тому

    I must agree with all the great comments below. Great video once again.

  • @sarahillingworth2718
    @sarahillingworth2718 Рік тому

    Thanks

  • @SteveAndAlexBuild
    @SteveAndAlexBuild Рік тому

    Superb 🤩🤩🧱👍🏽

  • @michaelwebber8631
    @michaelwebber8631 Рік тому

    What a fabulous & interesting video. Well done ! Hmmm, I do wish you would not refer to the ceiling as the roof. The roof is outside, slates ect, the fancy indoor auditorium is the ceiling.

    • @AdventureMe
      @AdventureMe  Рік тому

      Thanks Michael. They call it the roof space, hence my wording.

  • @frogandspanner
    @frogandspanner Рік тому

    It's amazing how buildings are always three times higher when looking down from the top than they are when looking up from ground level, and how on ascent the level of fear progresses from buttock-clenching to testicle-retracting.

  • @jekanyika
    @jekanyika Рік тому

    14:12 surely they should have secured the glass

  • @dannyseville2543
    @dannyseville2543 Рік тому

    The gallery has rails but the other upper levels have nothing but a low ledge to stop you falling over the edge.

  • @petedix2554
    @petedix2554 Рік тому

    It used to cost the price of 4 seats for a box. Not sure if that has changed?

  • @AndrewG1989
    @AndrewG1989 Рік тому

    Reminds me of the Kursaal in Southend-on-Sea. Very interesting building in Blackpool. Is it still being used or is it now derelict.

    • @petedix2554
      @petedix2554 Рік тому

      Still a theatre, used most of the time. We went a few weeks ago to see Spike.

    • @AndrewG1989
      @AndrewG1989 Рік тому

      Ok

  • @kevinmott6205
    @kevinmott6205 3 місяці тому

    It's a ceiling the roof is external ❤

  • @robgaskell2391
    @robgaskell2391 Рік тому

    Another cracker of a video. Also thanks for explaining the origin of the phrase 'break a leg' . Its always puzzled me

  • @vaslav030547
    @vaslav030547 9 місяців тому

    Which was the actual day when you say back in the day?

  • @anthonyellis987
    @anthonyellis987 Рік тому

    Ththeatre is beautiful, especially the roof. Thank goodness it was demolished.

  • @IC225
    @IC225 Рік тому

    grand serets....apart from the SCI stuff like you get with the tunnles....that litratly is SCI sensitive compartmented information

  • @stationhouse5866
    @stationhouse5866 Рік тому

    👍👍👍😊

  • @GeminiMoon926
    @GeminiMoon926 Рік тому

    The Royal box seats don't look that comfy if I'm to be honest 👀

  • @jameslockwood1958
    @jameslockwood1958 Рік тому

    9 months? 🤣

  • @Mrstilskin
    @Mrstilskin Рік тому +3

    “Check out that roof” did you mean “check out that ceiling”? 🤦‍♂️

  • @QIKUGAMES-QIKU
    @QIKUGAMES-QIKU Рік тому

    This does not Fit the Narrative