Who are we?
The Blackburn Empire Theatre is a professional theatre staging a variety of professional and amateur work throughout the year. Pendle Productions are a nationally recognised professional Theatre and Arts Company who have been touring and performing across the UK since 1985. Both organisations have come together to provide the best instruction and experiences for young people in the best environment with first class facilities.
The Academy is now in its 6th successful year and is a professionally led performance, actor, technical film-making and musical performer training company for young people. All our activities are designed to be a fun way of learning new skills, making new friends and exploring the arts. All our staff are fully qualified and experienced practitioners who work professionally in the Theatre/Film/ Television/ Radio industries. We have DBS checks on staff and are fully insured to work with children.
What do we do?
We work together with young people to create professional quality performances and experiences in the arts, while teaching the skills and knowledge necessary to further enjoy their artistic activities.
We run Summer and Holiday projects, through which young people work on one project for a whole week presenting a final project to the public in the main house theatre on the final day.
We also run taster sessions each Easter and October where you can sign up to try out and learn new skills whilst working with industry professionals. These taster sessions are a fun way to experience, learn, develop and explore.