Our resident groups

These groups call the Empire their home

Blackburn Empire Theatre isn’t just a venue – it’s a home for a number of local groups and organisations who rehearse, perform and create here week in, week out.

Looking to bring a show, run an event or work with us? Explore hiring and programming at Blackburn Empire Theatre .

From long-established drama societies to dance academies and musical theatre companies, these groups are a vital part of the life of the Empire and the wider community.

Zoë Taylor Dance Academy logo
Based at Blackburn Empire Theatre

Zoë Taylor Dance Academy

Classes run Monday to Saturday in ballet, tap and modern, with I.D.T.A syllabus classes and exams, cheerleading and street, musical theatre and gymnastics. The academy is also involved in professional pantomimes, shows and displays.

Blackburn Drama Club logo
Based at Blackburn Empire Theatre

Blackburn Drama Club

Blackburn Drama Club has been established for over 70 years and remains a committed and active part of the local theatre scene, with dedicated members and committee supporting its continued success and productions.

Blackburn Musical Theatre Company logo
Based at Blackburn Empire Theatre

Blackburn Musical Theatre Company

Founded in 1912 in Blackburn, Blackburn Musical Theatre Company has entertained thousands of people across Lancashire for well over a century, building a reputation as one of the region’s strongest amateur musical theatre groups.

Blackburn Gilbert and Sullivan Society logo
Based at Blackburn Empire Theatre

Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society

A performing society dedicated to staging and performing the works of Gilbert and Sullivan, the group presents a regular opera production as well as a spring and early summer concert series each year.

Made For Stage logo
Based at Blackburn Empire Theatre

Made For Stage

Made For Stage is Blackburn’s dedicated musical theatre academy for ages 4 and upwards. Students learn singing, acting and dancing in a setting built around performance, training and enthusiasm for the next generation.

GO on Tour logo
Based at Blackburn Empire Theatre

GO on Tour

The GOs began in 2009 as a light exercise group for over-50s, originally involving theatre volunteers and Age UK. Since then, they have grown into a thriving performance group appearing in a range of venues across the area.