Blackpool has always had a great reputation for shows attractions, amusements and many other forms of entertainment. Blackpool shows represent the continuation of a tradition extending back over half a century of seaside variety with origins in the musical hall incorporating a combination of comedy, singing and dancing acts.  For many years comedy and variety shows have attracted large audiences to theatres in the resort and popular television stars would also perform summer seasons.  The resort featured the greatest stars of their day and to perform in Blackpool was often considered to be an important time in an artiste’s career. The stars of the future might also be discovered performing in Blackpool shows and in the thriving club scene. Established performers would top the bill during a summer season in the Blackpool. Many famous names have appeared in the theatres including Lily Langtry, Arthur Askey, George Formby, Charlie Chaplin, Gracie Fields, Tom Jones, and Ken Dodd.  Blackpool shows continue to offer variety acts that appeal to audiences of all ages.   Performers who were well known to viewers from appearing on television have starred in Blackpool providing visitors with the opportunity of seeing their favourites live on stage. Cannon and Ball, Little and Large, Russ Abbott and many other acts have been hugely popular both on television and in theatres.  In more recent years there seems to have been something of a decline in televised variety with increasing emphasis on reality TV shows which less easily translate into seaside presentations.