This morning, like many other people, we were sad to hear the news that comedy legend Sir Ken Dodd had passed away.
Sir Ken was a much-loved star, famous for his epic stand-up shows. He died on Sunday in the home he was born in, in the Liverpool suburb of Knotty Ash.
Here at Blackburn Empire Theatre, we will remember Ken as a man of great generosity and someone who helped to transform our theatre.
Whilst we were trying to raise the funds reintroduce a balcony to the theatre which would help us expand by 140 seats, Sir Ken led the way in our ‘rogue gallery’ appeal.
Without Ken’s help, our theatre, perhaps, would not be what it is today.
Ken has been called ‘the last of the music hall greats’, but we will remember him for his tremendous kindness, humility and his support for our theatre when we needed it most.
I am proud to have had the opportunity to share a stage with one of the greatest ever comedians, and we are thankful that we had the chance to experience his genius.
– Michael Berry, Chairman