Southport BID feature by Stand Up For Southport
Ginificent, a renowned theatre production company, established in 1999, is thrilled to announce the launch of ‘The Fool’ – an innovative arts venue in the heart of Southport.
This exciting new chapter marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey, as it continues to push the boundaries of creativity.
The Fool is a vibrant hub that brings together music, immersive theatre and dining experiences alongside a range of creative arts programs for all ages.
It is based at 30 West Street in Southport town centre in the venue previously occupied by The Firepit restaurant, and before that, The Warehouse restaurant, a favourite haunt of stars including former Liverpool FC legends Sir Kenny Dalglish, Alan Hansen and Steven Gerrard.
The Fool is situated directly below Werksy, Southport’s first ever co-working office space.
As a not-for-profit organisation, every penny earned through the Fool will be reinvested into nurturing the arts in Southport and developing new, innovative projects.
The Fool’s story began in 1999 with the formation of Tiny Giants Productions LTD, a Theatre in Education company that quickly gained popularity, touring over 1,600 schools annually.
In 2008, the company transformed an old warehouse into ‘The Lantern Theatre’ in Liverpool, providing a platform for emerging artists and community groups to showcase their talents.
After relocating to Southport in 2014, the company evolved into Ginificent, continuing to tour the UK with issue-based plays while introducing reimagined classics and original productions to larger venues.
The pandemic prompted a pivot into filmmaking, with the support of Arts Council England, resulting in the company’s first feature film: ‘Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’ in 2021, specifically designed to support GCSE English students.
Now, in 2024, The Fool marks a new chapter in the company’s history, embracing the unknown and shaking things up with immersive experiences that will delight and inspire audiences.
The venue promises to be a haven for creativity; where music, theatre, and art unite to ignite the senses and spark the imagination.
Launch Weekend:
Saturday, 16th November 2024
Welcome to The Fool! Join them for a spectacular opening event.
- Live Music from 12pm
- Box Office – Promotional Offers
- Arts & Crafts Upstairs in The Fool’s Lounge
- A Christmas Carol – Excerpt by Liam Scott
- Open Stage
- Stalls
- Guest Speakers Live on Stage
- Midnight Jazz Club Night from 10:30pm
Festive Season:
Saturday, 7th December – Tuesday, 31st December 2024
Get ready for a magical festive season at The Fool, featuring:
- The Christmas Wish, a family-friendly Panto Dining experience
- Live music sessions with Midnight Jazz every Saturday, guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit
New Year’s Celebrations:
Leap into 2025 with The Fool’s Holland Show Ring in the new year with the spectacular Fool’s Holland Show, a night to remember; featuring music, theatre, and merriment.
“We are thrilled to introduce The Fool to the community,” said Clare Scott, Founder of Ginificent and The Fool.
“Our mission is to expand the arts scene in Southport, creating a new environment for people to come together, share experiences and grow creatively.
“We invite you to join us on this exciting journey and be a part of something truly special.”
The Fool Opening Times
Box Office & Coffee Shop
Meet the staff and explore the box office and coffee shop, open from 9am-6pm, Tuesday-Saturday from Tuesday 19th November 2024.
The Fool’s Club & Lounge
Will be open for events only, with a packed schedule of exciting performances and activities every weekend.
For more information, please visit www.thefoolsouthport.co.uk or follow them on social media @TheFoolSouthport
Join the conversation and be a part of The Fool’s creative revolution!
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Please message Andrew Brown via Facebook here or email me at: [email protected]
