Showtown Lates Returns with Electrifying Lightpool Installations by Chila Kumari Singh Burman | Latest News - VisitBlackpool

Following last year’s glowing reception, Showtown Lates returns and this time it’s brighter than ever. From 17 October to 1 November, Blackpool’s award-winning museum opens its doors after hours for a special Lightpool Festival edition, featuring an exclusive new installation by Chila Kumari Singh Burman MBE, one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Be the first to witness a spectacular explosion of colourful signature neon-light artworks that together celebrate Burman’s rich Hindu-Punjabi heritage, with references to Indian mythology.

Visitors can explore the full museum from 6-9pm on select evenings, diving deeper into the magic of Blackpool’s entertainment history, from circus and comedy to dance, theatre and seaside spectacle. And with tickets just £5 for adults and kids go FREE, it’s one of the most joyful, affordable nights out in town.

Phil Holmes, Artistic Director of Lightpool said:
“We are pleased to announce the continuation of our partnership with the esteemed Showtown, as we anticipate the remarkable events and festivities of Lightpool 2025. This collaboration is set to enhance the experience of Lightpool through a curated exhibition by Chila Kumari Singh Burman, along with the return of the popular Showtown Lates. Chila will grace Blackpool with this curated exhibition, showcasing a selection of her celebrated neon light artworks that have become iconic within her renowned installations.”

Spencer Phillips, Chair of Showtown said:
“We’re honoured to host Chila Kumari Singh Burman’s extraordinary neon artworks at Showtown for Lightpool 2025. Her bold, joyful creativity brings a powerful energy to the museum and we’re proud to be part of a festival that celebrates imagination and community in such a vibrant way. As only our second year involved, it’s exciting to see Showtown become a key stop on the Lightpool trail. Offering free entry to children is a vital part of our mission: making inspiring cultural experiences accessible to families across Blackpool and the North West.”

About the Artist: Chila Kumari Singh Burman
Chila Kumari Singh Burman is a trailblazing British artist whose work fuses neon, collage, printmaking and cultural iconography into bold, rebellious statements of joy. Drawing on her Punjabi heritage, feminist politics and pop culture influences, Burman’s installations celebrate identity, resistance, and transformation with unapologetic flair.

Her neon artworks have lit up Tate Britain, Coventry Cathedral and Liverpool Town Hall, earning her widespread acclaim for turning public spaces into vibrant canvases of light and colour. At Showtown, Burman’s new installation will glow nightly throughout Lightpool, transforming the museum shop into a free-to-access light experience - no ticket required.

Exhibition Artworks Include:
Punjabi Rockers
Bow & Arrow
OHM
Hanging Monkey
Kali and Tea Cup
Mulitcoloured lamp

Showtown Lates Details

• Dates: 17 October-1 November
  (Excludes 19/21/22/23 October)

• Time: 6-9pm (last entry 8pm)

• Tickets: £5 adults / Kids go FREE (max 2 per adult)

• Shop & light installation open nightly from 15 October - no ticket needed

Please note: Showtown Lates tickets are single-use and not eligible for discounts or concessions.

About Lightpool Festival
Now in its 10th year, Lightpool Festival is one of the UK’s leading light art events, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to Blackpool each October. The 2025 edition spans 18 nights of illuminated experiences, showcasing 12+ brand new artworks, international installations, 3D projection shows, and the much-anticipated return of Carnival Magic at the Tower Ballroom.

Why Visit Showtown?
Since last year’s Lates, Showtown has earned national and international acclaim:
Permanent Exhibition of the Year - Museums + Heritage Awards 2025
Finalist - International Children in Museums and National Kids in Museum Awards
Highly Commended - Civic Trust Awards
Travellers’ Choice Award - TripAdvisor (4.8/5 rating)
Described as “the museum equivalent of a thrilling arcade,” Showtown is a place of joy, discovery, and theatrical wonder. Whether you’re a local, a Lightpool regular, or just curious to see what all the fuss is about- add Showtown to your Lightpool trail this year.
Showtown Blackpool: Bank Hey Street, FY1 4TQ  (Located in between Coral Island & The Blackpool Tower)

Booking highly recommended - last year was a hit!

www.showtownblackpool.co.uk

Come for the lights, stay for the laughs. Showtown Lates is where Blackpool’s stories shine brightest.