Blackpool Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID) is inviting applications for a Creative Producer to deliver Showzam 2026 – Blackpool’s celebrated festival of circus, magic, and street performance.
Taking place during February half-term (14th to 21st February 2026), Showzam will build on the success of the 2025 event, reimagining its legacy through a contemporary lens. Blending heritage, street theatre, and immersive experiences, the festival promises to captivate residents and visitors alike while helping extend the resort’s season.
The Role
The appointed Creative Producer will lead the artistic and operational delivery of the event, ensuring it reflects Blackpool’s unique identity while driving footfall, engagement, and media visibility.
Working with a budget of £45,000 (net of VAT), the role will involve curating performances, managing production, and collaborating with partners across the resort to bring the festival to life.
This is an exciting opportunity to shape one of Blackpool’s most distinctive cultural events, ensuring it reflects the town’s unique identity while driving visitor footfall, community engagement, and national visibility.
Key Responsibilities
Concept Development:
- Curate a compelling theme that aligns with Blackpool’s cultural heritage and TBID’s visitor economy strategy.
- Develop a programme of performances, installations, and interactive experiences across both town centre and other landmark Blackpool locations * note it is anticipated partner organisations will support location requirements.
Programming & Talent Management:
- Source and contract artists (local, national, and international) across circus, magic, street theatre, and spectacle.
- Ensure diversity, accessibility, and innovation in programming.
Production & Logistics:
- Oversee event delivery including scheduling, site management, health & safety, and technical requirements.
- Liaise with BID, local authorities, and stakeholders for permissions and operational support.
Audience Engagement & Legacy:
- Design participatory elements to engage families, schools, and community groups.
- Propose legacy activities or content that extend Showzam’s impact beyond the event dates.
Marketing & Communications Support:
- Collaborate with VisitBlackpool and partner marketing teams to shape promotional content and media partnerships.
- Provide assets and artist information for press, social media, and print.
Expected Outcomes and KPI’s of Showzam
- Demonstrable increased visitor footfall to resort due to the events.
- Well attended and highly engaged free events for mass attendance.
- High value PR opportunities based on secured talent
Considerations:
- Indoor based events preferential, learning on last year.
- Utilisation of existing resort assets and venues as hosts
Budget Overview
The total budget of £45,000 includes:
- Producer Fee: £7,000 – £10,000
- Artist Fees & Programming: £20,000 – £25,000
- Production & Logistics: £3,000 – £5,000
- Marketing Support: £3,000 – £5,000
Timeline
- Submissions Deadline: Tuesday, October 14th 2025 (5pm)
- Interviews: Tuesday, October 21st 2025
- Appointment: Monday, November 3rd 2025
- Programme Finalised: January 2026
- Festival Delivery: 14th – 21st February 2026
- Evaluation: March 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following by 5pm on Tuesday, October 14th 2025 to sue.grindrod@blackpoolbid.org
- A current CV outlining relevant experience
- An initial concept proposal (maximum 2 pages)
- A detailed budget breakdown and delivery plan, including any areas of anticipated ‘in kind’ support
- Two references or testimonials
Be Part of Blackpool’s Story
This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Blackpool’s most exciting cultural events, showcasing the resort’s talent, heritage, and spirit of performance.
Could you be the Creative Producer who brings Showzam 2026 to life?
Image (Visit Blackpool)