Morecambe Winter Gardens will take centre stage in a year‑long celebration of one of Britain’s best‑loved comics with a special “Eric Morecambe 100” headline weekend this May.
The historic Grade II-listed theatre has announced a packed programme over Saturday, May 16, and Sunday 17, timed to follow what would have been Eric’s 100th birthday on May 14.
The weekend forms the flagship event in a wider centenary programme backed by Morecambe Town Council.
On the Saturday, the Winter Gardens will throw open its doors from 12pm until 3pm with free entry to the auditorium and café.
Visitors will be able to watch classic Morecambe & Wise clips on the big screen, take building tours and enjoy live organ music, offering a taste of the venue’s heyday as a seaside variety palace.
At 4pm, attention turns to Eric’s life off stage with a ticketed centenary discussion featuring his children, Gary and Gail Morecambe.
Hosted by Martin Clarkson, producer of An Evening with Eric & Ern, the hour‑long interview and Q&A promises a personal perspective on the man behind the famous glasses and catchphrases.
Saturday night’s main event sees the acclaimed West End tribute show An Evening with Eric & Ern take to the Winter Gardens stage at 7.30pm.
Starring Jonty Stephens as Eric and Ian Ashpitel as Ernie, the show recreates some of the double act’s most cherished sketches and musical numbers.
Professor Vanessa Toulmin, chair of the Morecambe Winter Gardens Preservation Trust, said: “We are honoured to be a central part of ‘Eric Morecambe 100.
"Eric was born on May 14th, so hosting this weekend of events immediately following his birthday allows the town to come together and celebrate the joy he brought to the world, right here in the theatre he performed in.”
Ian Ashpitel, who plays Ernie Wise in An Evening with Eric & Ern, said: “To bring Eric & Ern to the Morecambe Winter Gardens on Eric’s centenary weekend is incredibly moving.
"This town isn’t just part of the story — it is the story.
"Performing here, in a venue so full of history and affection, feels like bringing Ernie and Eric home, and that’s something we’ll treasure forever.”
Gail Morecambe added: “Our family’s connection to Morecambe is well known!
"To have a week of celebrations for the 100th birthday of one of Morecambe’s own is both wonderful and very special.
"He would be thrilled and amazed.
"His lovely parents would be proud and amazed.
"Let it be a joyous week, bringing sunshine, even if the weather gods don’t!”
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The celebrations continue on Sunday, May 17, with another free open session from noon to 3pm, again featuring archive clips, tours and organ music.
At 4pm, the theatre will host a special, free ticketed screening of That Riviera Touch, one of Morecambe & Wise’s best‑known feature films, giving fans the chance to see Eric back on the big screen.
Tickets for the paid events go on sale from February 6, with strong demand expected. They will be available via morecambewintergardens.co.uk and from the theatre box office.
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