Joe Longthorne's favourite North Pier Theatre in Blackpool to be renamed in lasting tribute to resort's adopted son

Blackpool’s adopted son and beloved world renowned entertainer Joe Longthorne is to have his name immortalised in lights in the resort with the North Pier Theatre to be renamed in his honour.
Joe Longthorne MBEJoe Longthorne MBE
Joe Longthorne MBE

And in an exclusive for the town, some of the biggest names in entertainment are set to tread the boards of the ‘The Joe Longthorne Theatre’ to breathe new lease of life into the world-famous venue and celebrate the life of the musical icon who died on August 3 2019, at his home, in Blackpool.

An all-star variety opening night has been scheduled for the newly-named venue on May 31, what would have been Joe’s 65th birthday.

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A full line-up for the dazzling gala evening is expected to be announced soon, with tickets on sale next week.

Joe Longthorne MBE, performing on North PierJoe Longthorne MBE, performing on North Pier
Joe Longthorne MBE, performing on North Pier

Joe’s husband Jamie Moran, longtime friends with the Sedgwick family, who own and run the world famous piers said he was ‘deeply honoured’ for the tribute, adding ‘It’s just such a fantastic way to celebrate his memory.’

Jamie said the Grade II listed pier and it’s 1,400 capacity theatre was Joe’s all-time favourite venue to have performed in, with more than 20 seasons appearing at the theatre.

He said: “His first starred in a summer season there in 1987 followed by many record breaking seasons over the years and even took up residence once in his dressing room for a few months; he simply loved the feel of the theatre right at the end of the pier looking out on the Irish Sea.

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“His huge army of fans would make regular trips to see Joe on the North Pier and it was widely known that this was Joe’s all time favourite venue to perform.”

Joe Longthorne MBEJoe Longthorne MBE
Joe Longthorne MBE

Jamie said discussions with the Sedgwick family had been some months in the planning and they are all excited for the project which will also see part of the tea-rooms re-designed to home a new museum full of Joe’s memorabilia covering more than 50 years of his illustrious career in the industry.

Peter Sedgwick Snr said the family were honoured to dedicate a lasting tribute and to be able to offer many of Joe’s personal achievements for display.

He said: “We are also pleased to announce that ‘The Joe Longthorne MBE Museum’, adjacent to the theatre, is to open.

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“This will house Joe’s beloved Grand Piano, his MBE award from HM The Queen and Honorary Degree from The Open University, his Gold and Silver Discs, Variety Club awards together with many other awards and accolades.

North Pier Theatre to be renamed Joe Longthorne TheatreNorth Pier Theatre to be renamed Joe Longthorne Theatre
North Pier Theatre to be renamed Joe Longthorne Theatre

“On display will be Joe’s full stage attire and a collection of many other personal effects highlighting his 52 year long career as an entertainer, including an extensive display of posters and programmes and other memorabilia.

“It will be open with free admission throughout the summer months and ,with a tea room added for light refreshments, it will be the perfect place for fans to spend an hour or two on their visit to Blackpool.

“Joe Longthorne MBE really was a true legend and it will be a pleasure to bring Joe back to his favourite theatre for his loyal fans and of course for wonderful Blackpool.’

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Joe’s catalogue of music and filmed concerts will be played for visiting audiences during the opening hours.

Joe’s Grand Piano took pride of place in his home for 30 years and had been played by another music legend Stevie Wonder.

Jamie added there had been a fantastic response to the project, which he said would have ‘delighted’ the entertainer, who was known for his loyalty to fans.

“He would have been over the moon with this and it’s such a lovely thing for his family too.”

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Jamie and the Longthorne family together with the Sedgwick family will officially open the Theatre and Museum at a VIP event on Saturday May 30

More details on the all star gala evening to be held at ‘The Joe Longthorne Theatre.’ will be announced soon.

Contact box office at http://blackpoolpiers.co.uk

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