Paul Daniels, the renowned magician and entertainer, had a significant presence in Blackpool while promoting The Best of British Variety Tour 2008. Celebrated for his innovative magic tricks and charismatic performances, Daniels was a central figure in variety entertainment, adding glamour and excitement to his shows. The tour, which ran through August and September 2008, visited various venues across England and Wales and celebrated British variety—a genre known for its eclectic mix of comedy, music, and magic. Blackpool, with its rich variety theatre heritage, was a prominent location for this event. The city’s Winter Gardens, a historic venue long associated with variety shows, provided a perfect backdrop for the tour.
The Best of British Variety Tour 2008 featured a stellar lineup of variety stars alongside Paul Daniels. The tour included performances by Frank Carson, famous for his quick wit and humour; Jimmy Cricket, known for his comedic routines and distinctive attire; Cannon & Ball, the renowned double act celebrated for their slapstick comedy; the Krankies, a beloved Scottish duo known for their irreverent humour; and Brotherhood of Man, the pop group famed for their catchy tunes and harmonies. Each performer brought their unique style to the tour, creating a varied and entertaining show. Daniels and his fellow entertainers had the chance to engage with a local audience that deeply appreciates the tradition of variety shows. Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, with its grand architecture and historical significance, was an ideal venue for this tour. Its reputation for hosting a wide array of entertainment, from musicals to variety shows, made it a fitting location to showcase the talents of Daniels and his colleagues.
The tour was not only a celebration of individual talents but also a tribute to the tradition of variety entertainment that has long been a staple of British culture. Paul Daniels, with his magical skill and showmanship, played a key role in introducing this tradition to new audiences while honouring its roots. The inclusion of Blackpool in the tour highlighted the city’s role as a key player in the entertainment landscape, reinforcing its legacy as a hub for variety and theatrical performance. Paul Daniels’ involvement in The Best of British Variety Tour 2008, along with Blackpool’s role as a central venue, underscored the lasting appeal of variety entertainment. The tour showcased how traditional formats can continue to captivate audiences and celebrated the rich heritage of British entertainment through a blend of classic acts and contemporary showmanship.
Background image: Paul Daniels, Cannon and Ball, The Krankies, Jimmy Cricket and Frank Carson pictured at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool.
Inset image: Paul Daniels is pictured with a stick of rock at a fairground on the Central Pier with Blackpool Tower in the background, promoting the Best of British Variety Tour.
