Blackpool’s Dance Heritage
Based on our ongoing research into Blackpool’s rich dance heritage, we are building a comprehensive timeline that traces the evolution of dance culture in this iconic seaside resort, from Victorian pier dancing to the groundbreaking Capital of Dance festival. This page is a work in progress and will be regularly updated.
Mission Statement:
Blackpool Dance Board CIC is dedicated to safeguarding Blackpool’s intangible dance heritage. Through Capital of Dance, we ignite a new era of creativity and ensure the future of dance in Blackpool thrives for generations to come.
Uncle Tom's Cabin - Blackpool's Pioneering Dance Destination
Established by Thomas Parkinson, this revolutionary cliffside venue debuted as Blackpool’s first purpose-built dancing space in 1861. Its elevated wooden dance platform—a structural innovation for the era—hosted Victorian holidaymakers waltzing under the stars to live bands, facilitated by one of the resort’s earliest drinks licenses. This pioneering entertainment complex ignited Blackpool’s dance revolution, directly inspiring future landmarks like the Tower Ballroom and establishing the template for seaside leisure culture.
Victorian Era Dancing
Coming Soon Dancing on The Piers
