Past events

Wigan Casino 35th Anniversary

Event date: 20th September 2008

This year Grand Arcade celebrated the 35th Anniversary of Wigan Casino, with another late night party which was hosted by local Northern Soul legend Russ Winstanley, Grand Arcade and Modus, the centre developer. On Saturday 20th September Grand Arcade closed its doors to its regular customers and later reopened to a slightly different set of punters!

At 8.35pm the doors swung open to some classic ankle swinging trousers, bright patches and circle skirts, mixed with the not so authentic clobber.

The night was off to a great start; with Northern Soul DJs spinning out classics that soon got the atmosphere heated and got many dancing and jigging.

John Sanson, Grand Arcade Centre Manger who co-organised the event said, “When we were building Grand Arcade, it became evident that there was a massive Wigan Casino/Northern Soul interest from around the world, which astounded me. Previously the movement was operated in its little cliques but with the internet, all parties can now be at the forefront of events.

“Modus, as the developers of Grand Arcade, saw this and branded the upper floor with the Casino Café, the memorabilia cabinet, framed photographs and the overall backdrop. Last year was the first event we held here and it was a great success with Dean Parrish, for the 35th Anniversary this year we had the Flirtations and over 1,200 people attended to see them! I spoke to people from the North East, Anglesey, Scotland, the Midlands and London – a lot of them made a weekend of it, hotel rooms in the area were all fully booked so the event brought money to the local economy too.

“The overbearing comment from all those involved was what a nice crowd of people, no trouble, they just want to dance and talk to like minded people who are well versed in their subject! Our staff and tenants worked hard to put this event together and we are proud of its success…roll on next year but how do we make it better!?’

The Wigan Casino Event is one of many events which the centre hosts throughout the year.