Showtown Blackpool is setting a new standard for museum experiences with its innovative approach to interactive and immersive storytelling. In collaboration with exhibition designers Casson Mann and digital experience creators Squint/Opera, Showtown has transformed traditional museum exhibits into dynamic narratives that captivate and educate visitors about Blackpool’s vibrant entertainment history.
Located in the heart of Blackpool, Showtown is more than just a museum; it’s a journey through the glittering history of a city famed for its circus, magic, theatre, dance, and iconic illuminations. The museum is structured into six themed galleries, each designed by Casson Mann, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step behind the curtain and explore the lives of the performers and the magic of the entertainment industry that has made Blackpool a beacon of fun and creativity.
Squint/Opera’s role in this ambitious project was to create immersive exhibits that weave the rich story of Blackpool into engaging, interactive experiences. Utilising a vast array of interactive elements, novel designs, and a wealth of archival assets, Squint has successfully translated Blackpool’s historical tapestry into a cohesive narrative that spans the entire museum.
Upon entering Showtown, visitors are greeted by a 15-metre-long panoramic screen that introduces the history of Blackpool through animated sequences that feature famous faces and voices integral to the city’s cultural landscape. This vibrant introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration into the thematic areas of the museum.
Each gallery at Showtown is a testament to the power of immersive design:
- Magic Gallery: This space features AV screens embedded within a shelving unit surrounded by physical objects like dice and playing cards, creating an illusion of 3D space. Films of legendary magicians enhance the magical atmosphere, allowing visitors to delve into the art without unravelling its mysteries.
- Circus Gallery: Interactive dressing tables with two-way mirrors simulate the experience of being backstage at a circus, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of performers through historical footage and animations.
- Showtime Gallery: Celebrating Blackpool’s entertainment heritage, this gallery includes interactive elements like a ventriloquism station and an audition setup, alongside animations that highlight the diversity of performers who have graced Blackpool’s stages.
- Illuminations Gallery: Dedicated to Blackpool’s famous light shows, this area allows visitors to interact with light design tables, blending educational content with hands-on creativity to echo the city’s renowned illuminations.
- Dance Gallery: Visitors can explore dance evolution through interactive experiences, including a projection-mapped ballroom and a digital stage where they can see themselves as part of Blackpool’s dance history. This gallery also ensures inclusivity, adapting its features for wheelchair users.
Aligning with Blackpool’s “levelling up” initiative, Showtown emphasises cultural and community revitalisation. The museum has engaged with local schools and individuals with learning difficulties, ensuring the exhibits are accessible and educational for all visitors. This commitment extends beyond mere entertainment, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity central to Showtown’s philosophy.
Showtown Blackpool is not just preserving the history of a city known for its dazzling entertainment; it is transforming how that history is experienced by visitors. Through its collaborative efforts with Casson Mann and Squint/Opera, Showtown is pioneering a new era of museum exhibits, where engagement, education, and entertainment converge to create unforgettable experiences. This innovative approach not only enhances visitor enjoyment but also plays a crucial role in the cultural enrichment and community cohesion of Blackpool.
