The Fabled Fun Factory Faces Financial Fiasco
Once the shimmering jewel of Blackpool’s nightlife, the legendary Funny Girls nightclub has thrown in the towel and entered administration—just a heartbeat after being put up for sale. This unfortunate twist of fate puts around 60 jobs at risk. But don’t fret, the cabaret still has its glamorous wigs and sequins to cushion the fall.
From Drag to Decline: A Cultural Icon
Since dazzling its first audience in 1994 with drag and burlesque shows, Funny Girls has strutted its stuff as a cornerstone of the LGBTQ community. With accolades that declare it the “number one drag and cabaret venue” in the UK, it stands as a (flamboyantly dressed) testament to resilience—especially when it opened as a big ‘screw you’ to Margaret Thatcher’s clunky Section 28 legislation. Who knew banning the promotion of homosexuality would lead to fabulousness instead?
Management Shakeup: The Reign of Basil
The venue’s beloved founder, Basil Newby, 74, stepped down from his leading role last summer amid dreams of finding a magical new owner. He assured us all that it was business as usual—just like when your favorite show is canceled but keeps airing reruns. “Nothing will change imminently,” he stated, keen to avoid any awkward conversations at the bar. But he might want to update his Facebook status now that the administrators have swooped in.
Rolling With the Punches—Sort Of
As often happens in the wild world of nightlife, financial pressures and a drop in spending have peeked into Funny Girls’ glittery mirror, demanding attention. It’s curious how economics can be just as unpredictable as a drunken pratfall during a live performance. We’ll have to see if the venue remains open or if it will join the long list of establishments that have succumbed to the rigors of administration.
Who’s Who in the Funny Girls Family?
Ellis Noble Leisure, the official overseer of this flamboyant funhouse, employs around 30 staff, plus another 30 cabaret dancers that float in and out like confetti. It’s a real-life game of ‘Will It Blend?’ with people and performances. And yes, Funny Girls previously flirted with the dark side of administration back in 2018 when Thwaites Brewery temporarily took over. Remember when they tried to mix beer with sequins? Neither do we, thankfully.
Selling Dreams: The Price of a Nightlife Icon
Last year, the five-story spectacle—the former Odeon Cinema that’s as iconic as it is improbable—was tossed onto the market at a jaw-dropping £3.5 million. With a nightclub, a 120-cover restaurant, and an auditorium that comfortably seats 1,700, you’d think potential buyers would be lining up, but perhaps the market isn’t ready for a full-blown rainbow renaissance just yet.
When the Party Ends: A Wider Community in Turmoil
The waves of dismay don’t stop at Funny Girls; the LGBT+ community in the region has been catching the same rough waters. Nearby Manchester Pride decided to pull the plug and enter voluntary liquidation last October—because why celebrate pride when you can celebrate the art of financial mismanagement instead? Social impact 1, champagne dreams 0.
