Over 100 Years of Amateurs Dramatics in Blackburn. 

Founded in 1912 in Blackburn, BMTC formally “Blackburn Amateurs” have entertained thousands of people around Lancashire for over a century. From the Blackburn Odeon and Oswaldtwistle Civic, to our current home, The Blackburn Empire Theatre; Blackburn Musical Theatre Company has tred many a board while building up a reputation as one of the best amateur musical theatre groups in the region.

Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society are a performing society. It states in the original Rules of the Society that
“The Objects of the branch shall be… to stage and perform the works of Gilbert & Sullivan…”

They strive to bring the delightful works of William Schwenck Gilbert and Arthur Seymour Sullivan to as wide an audience as we can, by performing an opera every year, and by having a Concert Series in the spring/early summer every year.

‘Made for Stage’ is Blackburn’s only dedicated Musical Theatre Academy for ages 4 upwards. Singing, Acting and Dancing, you will learn it all! When you walk through the doors you’ll soon realise this isn’t just a class, we’re a cast.

After working professionally for 17 years, Simon returned to Blackburn after performing all over the world. His aim is to pass on his passion, knowledge and experience to the next generations of performers.

The GOs began in 2009 as a light exercise group for those over 50, primarily consisting of theatre volunteers in collaboration with Age UK. Their exercise sessions included a warm-up followed by simple dance routines.

Their first stage appearance was as backup for BBC Radio Lancashire’s Sally Naden in a simple dance routine. After being spotted by a local care home, they were invited to perform for its residents.

Now the GOs continue to thrive, performing across the area in various unique and unexpected venues.