Launch of Funny Girls

The Odeon

The current location of Funny Girls used to be Blackpool’s Odeon Cinema, which opened on the 6th of May 1939 with the film ‘Three Smart Girls Grow Up’. The Cinema was the largest of all the Oscar Deutsch built Odeon Theatres at the time and could accommodate over 3,000 people on its two levels, stalls and one circle. There was also a large cafe on the first floor, which would later be converted into a bar. Although the main entrance to the Theatre was on Dickson Road there was also an entrance to the front stalls on Springfield Road. The Theatre was not fitted with an Organ until 1946 although it had been provided with the space to house one since it was built. The Organ which was eventually installed was a Conacher 4-Manual/12-Ranks with grand piano. The Theatre was tripled in 1975 with two cinemas in the former rear stalls area, under the circle, and the larger number 1 cinema in the former circle, seating 1,300. This meant that you could see the former front stalls area from the circle, and all the original auditorium features were still visible.

Click the image above (taken in 1985) to be taken to the photographer’s Flickr page, which also features some interesting historic details.

Funny Girls

Odeon closed the Cinema in 1998 and it stood abandoned for years until it was bought by Basil Newby who converted the building, at a cost of £2 million in 2001 / 2002, and reopened it as the new site for Funny Girls in March 2002. Funny Girls was originally located on the corner of Queen Street and The Strand and first opened its doors in 1994. The new site on Dickson Road combines historic charm with a vibrant, modern atmosphere. The transformation of the building from a classic cinema to a cabaret bar and nightclub preserved its elegant architectural features while introducing contemporary design elements to create a sophisticated yet welcoming space. None of this would have happened without Basil Newby’s entrepreneurial talents. The video below provides some insight behind the magic.

Funny Girls is renowned for its lively cabaret shows that feature a mix of comedy, dance, and musical acts. The performances are known for their high energy, elaborate costumes, and engaging sets, making for an entertaining experience that caters to a wide audience. The venue also hosts themed nights and special events, further adding to its dynamic entertainment schedule. DJ Zoe, also known as Adrian Thornton, was a notable figure at the venue’s opening and described the experience as just like going into your nan’s lounge but with a fabulous cabaret show on. This reflects the venue’s unique blend of comfort and extravagance, creating an atmosphere where guests feel both at ease and entertained.

The venue is designed to offer a variety of seating options, including VIP areas and traditional cabaret seating, and features a stylish bar area serving cocktails, wines, and light bites. Funny Girls places a strong emphasis on providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons, enhancing its reputation as a beloved institution in Blackpool’s cultural landscape. With its blend of historical elegance and modern entertainment, Funny Girls has become a central part of Blackpool’s nightlife and continues to attract both locals and visitors. Its commitment to high-quality shows and a welcoming atmosphere has solidified its place as a premier cabaret destination in the town.

Backstage at Funny Girls © Alamy

Flamingo sign at side of building. © Deeper Blue Marketing & Design Ltd

Ground level Funny Girls signage. © Deeper Blue Marketing & Design Ltd

Just around the corner from Funny Girls is The Flying Handbag, another one of Basil Newby’s successful businesses. © Deeper Blue Marketing & Design Ltd

Visit Website