Historic theatre to host official birthday weekend events on May 16-17, featuring family Q&A, film screenings, and live tributes.
As part of “Eric Morecambe 100,” a year-long series of events honoring the centenary of the legendary comedian, the Morecambe Winter Gardens Theatre today announced a spectacular weekend of festivities. Scheduled for Saturday, May 16th and Sunday, May 17th, the events are timed to coincide with Eric’s actual 100th birthday on May 14th.
The Winter Gardens, a venue synonymous with Morecambe’s entertainment history, will serve as the hub for the birthday celebrations, offering a mix of free public access and exclusive ticketed performances.
The weekend’s events are presented in association with Morecambe Town Council, whose funding has helped support the programme.
Saturday, May 16:
The Main Celebration The weekend kicks off with a full day of nostalgia and live entertainment:
● 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Free Entry): The Auditorium and Café open to the public. Visitors can enjoy classic TV clips on the big screen, building tours, and live organ music.
● 4:00 PM – Eric Morecambe Centenary Discussion: Celebrating Morecambe & Wise with Gary and Gail Morecambe (Ticketed): A special interview and Q&A session. Hosted by Martin Clarkson (Producer of An Evening with Eric & Ern), this hour-long event offers a personal perspective on the comedy icon’s life through the eyes of his children.
● 7:30 PM – An Evening with Eric & Ern (Ticketed): The hit live stage show straight from London’s west end celebrates the duo’s legacy with sketches, songs, and laughter.
Sunday, May 17:
Cinema & Open House The festivities continue on Sunday with a focus on Eric’s cinematic legacy:
● 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Free Entry): The Auditorium and Café open to the public. Visitors can enjoy classic TV clips on the big screen, building tours, and live organ music.
● 4:00 PM – Special Feature Film Presentation: That Riviera Touch (Ticketed, free): A screening of the classic feature film, bringing the community together to enjoy Eric’s work on the silver screen.
Celebrating a Centenary
Prof. Vanessa Toulmin, Chair of Morecambe Winter Gardens Preservation Trust.
“We are honored 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 (Ernie Wise – an Evening with Eric & Ern):
“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.”
Jonty Stephens (Eric Morecambe – an Evening with Eric & Ern):
“Morecambe isn’t just where Eric was born — it’s where his spirit still lives. To stand on stage at the Winter Gardens during the centenary celebrations is truly humbling. The love this town has for Eric and Ernie is tangible, and sharing their joy and laughter here feels extraordinarily special and something we can’t wait to do in May.”
Gail Morecambe
“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. I am grateful and amazed! Let it be a joyous week, bringing sunshine, even if the weather gods don’t!”
Gary Morecambe
“As we celebrate Eric & Ernie’s remarkable legacy over 100 years, I wonder what they’d have thought of the affection that remains out there, and, for Eric, the fact that there is so much going on in Morecambe to celebrate his genius? I’m very certain they’d have both been thrilled.”
Cllr Martin Bottoms, cabinet member with responsibility for Morecambe regeneration:
“Eric Morecambe is woven into the very fabric of our town. His legacy continues to bring pride to our community and joy to millions. We’re absolutely delighted to be helping celebrate his birthday and to honour everything he has given to the town that will always be his home.”
Cllr Clark Kent, Chairperson of Morecambe Town Council:
“The weekend at the Winter Gardens will be the crown jewel in the year’s Eric Morecambe 100 celebrations. Bringing a hit West End show to Morecambe feels a very fitting way to celebrate the birthday of Morecambe’s most famous son and the Town Council is proud to be making this possible.”
Ticket Information
Tickets for all paid events go on sale starting February 6th, 2026. Early booking is recommended as high demand is expected for the centenary weekend. Tickets can be purchased via morecambewintergardens.co.uk or at the box office.
About Morecambe Winter Garden
The Morecambe Winter Gardens is a Grade II* listed theatre and a landmark of British seaside entertainment. It is currently undergoing a major restoration led by the Preservation Trust to return it to its former glory.
About Eric Morecambe 100 (Morecambe Town Council)
Morecambe is coming together throughout 2026 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Eric Morecambe’s birth with a series of events, activities, and projects to mark the occasion. Further details to be announced.
