Visiting the Grand Theatre

I had the privilege of meeting Adam Knight from Grand Theatre Blackpool who gave me a backstage tour and chatted about the importance giving young people access to theatre. Engagement with the arts enriches lives and inspires creativity.

This summer The Grand Theatre is launching training pathways in acting and musical theatre for 14-19 year olds and the Grand Young Company allows young people in the town first hand experience being part of live theatre. All this means young people interested in working in creative careers, theatre-making and performance have opportunities to develop right here on their doorsteps.

With Labour, the arts and music will no longer be the preserve of a privileged few. A Labour government will recognise that culture is an essential part of supporting children and young people to develop creativity and find their voice.

Labour has a plan to implement a creative industries sector plan as part of our Industrial Strategy, creating good jobs and accelerating growth in film, music, gaming, and other creative sectors. We will support children to study a creative or vocational subject until they are 16 and improve access to cultural assets.

Locally, I will support our brilliant grassroots and established cultural institutions to provide more opportunities for artists and creatives right here in Blackpool, tackling the ‘brain drain’ that happens when our most talented creatives look elsewhere for opportunities.

There is huge potential for growth in the creative industries in Blackpool where we have a wealth of cultural assets. Let’s build on them to create a town that is not just a great place to visit, but a vibrant place to live and work as a creative.