Blackpool's Funny Girls show bar goes on the market

The legendary Funny Girls cabaret venue on Dickson Road is officially up for sale.

Its proprietor Basil Newby MBE having announced his retirement after more than four decades leading the beloved resort institution 

Newby, aged 74 and soon turning 75, said he bought his first club, The Flamingo, in 1979 and founded Funny Girls in 1994. After relocating it to the former Odeon cinema in 2002, the showbar became world‑renowned for its dazzling drag performances and art‑deco glamour, a staple of Blackpool’s nightlife drawing audiences nationwide.

IMAGE: Proprietor Basil Newby

In his heartfelt statement, Newby remarked:

"I bought my one and only beloved Flamingo in 1979 and then Funny Girls as you know, 31 years ago. Next year I will be 75 and after a lot of soul-searching and sleepless nights, I know now is the time for me to bow out gracefully and retire. Close family members have health problems, and I need to spend more quality time with them, so it really is right for me."

"Betty and Zoe both knew when to call it a day at the venue. No matter what silly gossip goes around Betty, Zoe and me still have a deep friendship and speak regular to each other. We have had our ups and downs but are friends for ever."

"Although I still love Funny Girls, it needs new blood to take it forward for another 30 years."

"Ian, my partner of over forty years and a massive part of my life and the success of the empire feels the same too so it’s a joint decision."

"Dean Bennett who is not only a close friend but the hub of Funny Girls, is amazing at running the venue and the show. Alongside Carmen, Chi Chi the manager plus Martin who all have been a big part of its success I have full confidence that they will take it to a different level going forward."

"Because of this, I have decided I need some Baz time after all these years dedicating myself to the venues. I want to see the Redwood Forests in California, the Northern Lights and many more things before I'm too old. So as of this Wednesday, the business will be for sale to give someone else the chance to love it and achieve what I have over the last 46 years."

"Nothing will change imminently, it's business as usual, so please don't worry about your jobs. It could be 3 months or even 3 years before the right person comes along that I feel is the one I trust to take it on over that rainbow I dreamed of so many years ago."

"I wish you all love and hope you understand why I need to do this."

"I don't want to end up like old Mr Grace coming in saying you have all done very well lol."

"To all the staff thank you so much for all your hard work and the joy you have given me over the years. And like I said, nothing will change for the next few months, I will still be here at the reigns."

"I have asked Christie and Co in Manchester to act on my behalf in the sale. They know the business, and I am confident they will vet anybody and find the right buyer for this special building."

Though the sale is underway, Newby insisted it would be “business as usual” in the short term. He cautioned it might take between three months and three years before the right person steps forward.

The story of Funny Girls has seen turbulent chapters. In 2018, Funny Girls Ltd entered administration, leaving substantial debts—including over £308,000 in unpaid business rates written off by Blackpool Council. The venue, and its associated venues including Flamingo and Flying Handbag, were temporarily taken on by Daniel Thwaites Brewery, which safeguarded around 80 local jobs. Newby later repurchased the venue from Thwaites in 2019, reclaiming control of his entertainment empire.

Newby’s personal resilience also shone through during a private battle with prostate cancer several years ago, which he described as a wake‑up call to slow down and step back. He underwent treatment in Munich and emerged committed to a healthier pace of life while still celebrating the town he helped transform.

Newby’s decision marks the end of an era for Blackpool nightlife. Yet he emphasises his love for the town—and hopes a new owner will carry forward “another 30 years” of brilliance at Funny Girls.