The Grand takes families seriously, which not every big touring house does. The panto, Jack and the Beanstalk this year, is recommended for 3 and over and has audio-described, signed and relaxed dates. Around it the theatre books family shows through the year and puts on a summer youth production each August (Joseph this year).
Next up after Christmas are Charlie and the Chocolate Factory from 24 to 27 March, staged by the local Blackpool Operatic Players, and Dog Man: The Musical from 14 to 16 May, which is 5 and over and aimed squarely at the kids who read the books under the duvet. There is also a young company and a schools programme.
What it costs: Jack and the Beanstalk (4 December to 3 January) is from £18; the relaxed performance on 27 December at 5pm is £28 for every seat. Tickets cannot be refunded once bought.
The Grand's panto, recommended for ages 3 and up, with Lisa George from Coronation Street as the Spirit of the Beans and Steve Royle as Silly Simon. It has strobe, smoke, pyrotechnics and loud bangs, all toned down for the relaxed performance on Sunday 27 December at 5pm if you have a child who hates noise.
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