
A charitable foundation in the name of the late comic genius, Sir Ken Dodd, has recently made a significant financial contribution to bolster the rich entertainment heritage of a town that he cherished dearly. The specifics of the donation came to light recently, highlighting the aim to primarily support the youth.
The funds from the charity will be directed towards the construction of the Sir Ken Dodd Learning Space, located in Blackpool’s Showtown, slated for completion in 2024. Sir Ken was no stranger to the performing arts scene in the resort, featuring in countless shows over his illustrious six-decade-long career.
Lady Anne Dodd, his wife, expressed her fond resonance with the town of Blackpool. She underscored its significance in her husband’s life, noting that the local population held a special place in the late comic’s heart.
Operation of the learning space will fall under the stewardship of the Blackpool Heritage and Museum Trust (BHMT). They gratefully acknowledged a significant boost to their learning provisions owing to the donation from Sir Ken Dodd’s charity.
Lady Anne recently took a tour of the architectural project, expressing immense hope in its potential to impart knowledge to young minds about the town’s pivotal role in shaping the industry.
In reflecting about Sir Ken, who passed away in 2018, BHMT Chief Executive Liz Moss stated that he was an integral part of Blackpool’s history. She spoke of the immense honor she felt in preserving his memory through this initiative.
Lady Anne Dodd reminisced about her husband’s successful performances in the Blackpool resort. “From 1962, Ken topped the bill and set the record for six consecutive seasons at the Blackpool Opera House, with twice daily sell-out shows,” she fondly recalled.
In 2022, a commemorative statue of the comic was unravelled at Blackpool’s Grand Theatre, a site he worked tirelessly to save from closure in the 1970s. Sir Ken showcased his support through numerous benefit performances and by co-establishing the Friends of the Grand Theatre group.
In addition, he christened the resort’s Comedy Carpet in 2011, which is a section of the promenade immortalizing his jokes and those of several other writers and comedians who are associated with the town.