Blackpool has officially entered the competition to be named the next UK City of Culture, a move that supporters argue challenges longstanding cultural hierarchies by foregrounding the town’s vibrant history as a centre of popular entertainment. The selection process, which will announce a shortlist of four contenders this autumn, has sparked debate about the definition of culture and the role of traditional “high art” versus popular performance.
Historically known as a holiday destination on the Fylde coast, Blackpool has a rich legacy in performance arts. It is home to six theatres and has hosted major touring productions, including West End musicals, plays, and ballet. Proponents highlight the town’s longstanding role in nurturing some of Britain’s most celebrated entertainers such as Gracie Fields, George Formby, Morecambe and Wise, Ken Dodd, Cliff Richard, the Shadows, and Cilla Black. These figures are frequently cited as national treasures who contributed significantly to the country’s cultural identity through popular entertainment.
The town's bid also recalls a notable moment in its history: the 1955 Royal Variety Performance, which was the first of its kind staged outside London, taking place at Blackpool’s Opera House. This event underscores the town’s capacity for hosting prestigious cultural occasions and its historical integration into the national entertainment circuit.
While the bid has met with skepticism from some quarters, particularly those favoring conventional definitions of cultural merit associated with elite institutions, advocates argue that this perspective undervalues the significance of popular culture and entertainment. They assert that Blackpool’s contribution to the cultural landscape warrants recognition, viewing the City of Culture title as a platform to celebrate a broader and more inclusive understanding of British culture.
If successful, the bid promises to leverage Blackpool’s reputation for showmanship and its infrastructure of performance venues to stage a compelling and widely accessible cultural program. Supporters contend that the town’s popular appeal and heritage in entertainment provide it with distinctive strengths to fulfill the role.
The shortlist announcement is expected in the coming months, with competition among nine towns, cities, and regions vying for the accolade. The decision will reflect evolving attitudes toward cultural value, balancing respect for traditional arts establishments with recognition of popular and regional cultural contributions.