Audio Show Brochure Makes Grand Employee New 'Voice' Of The Theatre

Blackpool Grand Theatre has launched its new ‘Audio’ version of its new season Guide to boost accessibility for visually impaired visitors following its new sales office re-opening after 17-months of closure.

The Guide, which is packed with over 50 shows, has been produced through a collaboration between the Theatre and a previous employee, Anne-Marie Flood, who has recently launched a voice audio company.

The recordings promote shows ranging from The Grand’s very own production Around the World in 80s Days, an 80s comedy musical, to the spine-chilling West End hit The Woman in Black.  A-list comedians, Rob Beckett, Jason Manford and Alan Carr, also bring their stand-up to the stage. Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and Bizet’s Carmen produced by Ellen Kent Opera return to Blackpool and the spectacular Russian State Ballet of Siberia, is a staple offering for New Year.

Available on Sound Cloud, theatregoers can easily access the Audio brochure online - Click here for more. 

To further support the marketing drive, over 150,000 printed Guides have been dropped across the Fylde in one of the theatre’s biggest ever promotions of a season.  The theatre has also commenced on a coastwide visual promotional campaign to raise customer awareness of the venue reopening.

Andrew Howard, Marketing Manager at The Grand, said: “Accessibility is one of our major priorities and we want all theatregoers to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.  Our website has a wealth of information on how to plan your visit, and facilities including seating arrangements, assistance dogs, accessible performances, hearing loops and how to sign up to our Access Register.

“Blackpool Grand is also keen to support its past employees in new ventures as we fully understand that Covid has meant that many have needed to re-evaluate their circumstances and lives and so it was great to be back working with Ann-Marie on this project. Sadly, we had to reduce the theatre’s workforce from 57 to 14 but we are now in our recovery period like many companies and attempting to re-build, which is why it was important to support Anne-Marie’s new business.

“We’re tremendously excited about the future for the Grand and how successful our promotional efforts have been.  The audio brochure highlights our incredible line-up of shows, with more being added on a daily basis.”

Anne-Marie said: “As a former part of the marketing department at The Grand, it’s been great to help continue spreading the word about the shows and how everyone can enjoy this fantastic venue – regardless of their accessibility needs.  The team have been a pleasure to work with and I hope to assist more venues across The Fylde on similar projects and of course, working with Blackpool Grand on next year’s new season campaign.”

For more information on our accessibility options and to book your tickets, please visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk