Showtown

Blackpool, North West

Showtown, Blackpool's new museum, is a celebration of the town's storied history as a hub of seaside entertainment in the UK. The museum demonstrates a thoughtful adaptation of a former hotel and nightclub into a vibrant cultural space. By repurposing an existing structure, Showtown minimises the environmental impact of new construction, transforming the old into something dynamic and new. Robust construction and detailing further ensure the building will age gracefully, contributing to Blackpool's ongoing regeneration. The museum caters to diverse visitor needs with good circulation, accessible lifts, specialised changing facilities, and interpretation aids for the visually impaired. The inclusion of ‘quiet open days’ demonstrates sensitivity to neurodiverse audiences, ensuring Showtown is a welcoming space for all. The benefit to the community and visitors cannot be overstated. A large public consultation was held to engage with more than 4,000 visitors prior to opening. The objectives of the event were to raise the project profile with locals and tourists, test ideas for the museum and gain feedback on designs. This event was a two-day festival celebrating Blackpool and unveiling the first public plans for the museum. Visitors to the event were able to get a taster of what the museum could include, comment on the plans, try out interactive challenges and see special performances. This has resulted in Showtown filling a significant cultural gap in Blackpool, offering a high-quality, immersive experience that both entertains and educates. The galleries, enriched with multimedia installations, historical artifacts, and interactive displays, create a playful yet informative environment. Roaming actors add an engaging, human touch, bringing Blackpool’s heritage vividly to life. The museum’s six galleries provide flexible exploration, making it especially enjoyable for families with children. Crucially, Showtown fosters a renewed sense of civic pride among Blackpool residents. It highlights the town’s heritage while reshaping perceptions of Blackpool as a destination that offers more than transient amusements. 

Judges’ Comments:

“By celebrating Blackpool’s rich past, Showtown has become a beacon of cultural regeneration, paving the way for a brighter future for this iconic seaside town.”