A Dance Through Time: Friedmans and the Legacy of the Blackpool Tower Ballroom
By Friedmans, 23 April 2025
There are few places in the world that capture the elegance, grace, and timeless romance of ballroom dancing quite like the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom. Since its grand opening in 1894, the Ballroom has been a stage for dazzling performances, legendary competitions, and unforgettable memories. But behind every graceful glide and twirling gown is another unsung hero of the dance world: the fabric.
At Friedmans, we are incredibly proud to have played a small but special part in this rich tradition, supplying premium fabrics for the Blackpool Tower Ballroom over the years. As dancers sweep across the famously sprung dance floor beneath the glow of crystal chandeliers and the sound of the mighty Wurlitzer organ, they do so in costumes brought to life with textiles made to move, shimmer, and perform.
A Heritage of Elegance
Originally designed by renowned Victorian architect Frank Matcham, the Blackpool Tower Ballroom is a masterpiece of opulence and imagination. From the gilded balconies to the breath-taking ceiling, every inch reflects the spirit of dance and drama. It’s a venue that doesn’t just host performances it becomes part of them.
As any dancer or designer will tell you, the fabric is critical. It’s not just about colour or pattern although those are important, it’s about how a textile flows with the movement, catches the light, and withstands the passionate energy of dance. That’s where Friedmans comes in.
Fabric That Moves with the Music
Our involvement with the Blackpool Tower Ballroom dates back decades. We’ve worked closely with designers, costume makers, and performers to provide the perfect textiles for their creations fabrics that shimmer under stage lighting, stretch with every turn, and bring drama to every dip.
Whether it’s a rich velvet for a dramatic ballroom number or a lightweight stretch net for a romantic waltz, our collection has helped set the stage…literally, for countless performances. It’s a relationship built on a shared passion for performance, beauty, and excellence.
More Than Just a Dance
Today, the Blackpool Tower Ballroom continues to be a landmark not only of dance but of cultural heritage. From televised competitions to everyday afternoon teas, it draws people from all walks of life into its world of enchantment.
And at Friedmans, we’re honoured to continue our part in that journey.