Blackpool Grand Theatre is celebrating a major national achievement after winning the ‘Excellence in Workforce Culture Award’ at the 2026 UK Theatre Awards in London on Monday 12 October. The award recognises the historic theatre’s commitment to creating a positive, supportive and inclusive working environment, celebrating the staff, volunteers and collaborators who help bring performances and community projects to life.
Designed by renowned Victorian theatre architect Frank Matcham, the Grade II* listed Blackpool Grand was shortlisted alongside Swindon Theatres and Wales Millennium Centre, taking home the national award in recognition of its people-centred approach.
Chief Executive Adam Knight said the award was a proud moment for the whole organisation, recognising the contribution of everyone who works at the theatre, from front-of-house teams and backstage technicians to volunteers, trustees and freelance partners. He said: “We are immensely proud to receive the UK Theatre Award for Excellence in Workforce Culture. Blackpool Grand is a theatre that inspires a lifelong love of theatre, and we are equally committed to the lifelong learning and development of everyone who works and participates here. “From a care-experienced young person taking their first paid front-of-house role, to a Youth Tech member operating a follow-spot for pantomime, to colleagues and volunteers who have devoted decades to The Grand, we welcome people of every background and experience and give them the opportunity to shine.”
The award reflects a range of initiatives designed to help people develop their skills, feel supported at work and access opportunities within the theatre industry. These include values-led recruitment and induction, employee-led equality, diversity and inclusion groups, and practical changes such as a new Menopause Policy and more inclusive uniform fabrics. The theatre also supports routes into employment and volunteering through Access to Work and WorkFit. Its Grand Young Technicians programme, led by Technical Stage Manager David Renwick and his team, has introduced more than 40 young people to backstage careers. Participants have progressed into their first paid theatre roles and opportunities through the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Next Generation Technical partnership. The Grand also offers apprenticeships, leadership development and routes into training and employment, and is a Real Living Wage employer.
As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, the theatre combines a year-round programme of touring productions, co-productions and community engagement with a commitment to inclusive working practices. It is also a Disability Confident Committed employer and a partner in Ramps on the Moon, which champions greater representation and opportunities for Deaf and disabled people in theatre.
