blackburn-empire-The Poppy Holiday Show

The Poppy Holiday Show

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Monday 2nd February 2026 at 2:00pm


For one night only

Brought to You by Poppy & Friends get ready for a feel-good, toe-tapping afternoon as Poppy & Friends deliver timeless, unforgettable songs direct to your seat!

From classic hits like “Shout,” “Don’t Call Me Baby,” “Runaround Sue,” “Tell Me Ma,” and “Puppet on a String “to many more crowd-pleasing favourites, this show is bursting with nostalgia and energy.

Expect sing-alongs, fun, laughter, and surprises in an action-packed live music and theatre experience that's perfect for all ages.

This performance is especially close to Poppy’s heart and her friends’ too so if you can come along and join us, please do! Your support means the world.

 

blackburn-empire-We Will Rock You: The Musical by Queen & Ben Elton

We Will Rock You: The Musical by Queen & Ben Elton

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

From Thu 23rd July 2026 to Sun 26th July 2026


by Made for Stage – 6 shows to choose from.

WE WILL ROCK YOU – THE MUSICAL by QUEEN & Ben Elton

Presented by Made For Stage UK Ltd & ALTD Productions

Get ready to rock as we bring you the iconic, high-energy musical We Will Rock You to the stage!

Set in a dystopian future where live music is banned, instruments are forbidden, and individuality is crushed, We Will Rock You follows a group of rebel Bohemians fighting to bring back freedom of expression — and rock ‘n’ roll.

At the heart of the story is Galileo, a dreamer who hears strange words in his head. Alongside the fierce and fearless Scaramouche, they join the rebellion to challenge the tyrannical Globalsoft Corporation, led by the Killer Queen. Their mission? To rediscover the lost power of rock and unleash the spirit of Queen once more.

Featuring over 20 of Queen’s greatest hits — including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Under Pressure,” and of course, “We Will Rock You” — this electric jukebox musical is a celebration of music, rebellion, and staying true to who you are.

With spectacular vocals, epic rock anthems, and plenty of laughs along the way, this is a night out that will have you clapping, stomping, and singing along from start to finish.

We Will Rock You is presented through special arrangement with and all
authorised performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights
Worldwide (TRW) www.theatricalrights.co.uk

Music and Lyrics by QUEEN

Story and Script by BEN ELTON

Original Vocal Score by MIKE DIXON, BRIAN MAY and ROGER
TAYLOR

Original Orchestrations by STEVE SIDWELL

Music and Lyrics by QUEEN and Script by BEN ELTON
Original

Vocal Score by MIKE DIXON, BRIAN
MAY, & ROGER TAYLOR

Original Orchestrations by STEVE SIDWELL

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Ultimate 70s Show

Ultimate 70s Show

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Saturday 5th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Travel back in time and relive the sights and sounds of the seventies. The Ultimate 70’s show rolls back the years and takes you on a roller coaster ride with a show encompassing all the biggest glam hits form that era.

It was the decade that time forgot – so dust off your tank tops, lace up your platform boots, spray on the Old Spice, it’s time to rock!! A six piece line up faithfully recreate huge anthems by Slade, T-Rex, Bowie, The Sweet, Mud, Alice Cooper to name a few.

The audience are encouraged to dress with the times and join in the fun in this high octane show.

Leave your inhibitions at the door for a night of pure seventies glam rock!!

Fancy dress not necessary but strongly encouraged!!

 

blackburn-empire-This is DISCO

This is DISCO

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Thursday 24th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Grab your dancing shoes, flares and feather boas* as we take you on a whirlwind trip back to the 70s!

Starring the sensational, world’s greatest, LIVE Disco review – Uncle Funk. Famous globally for their electrifying performances and impeccable renditions of all your favourite DISCO anthems, they have been setting festivals and dance floors alight (quite literally) for over 25 years. Infectious energy, stunning stage presence and world-class musicianship awaits as the band captures the very essence of the disco era.

Direct from Glastonbury and into your theatre, this 9-piece Supergroup have performed on some of the world’s biggest stages including multiple appearances at Glastonbury Festival, Standon Calling, Cambridge Club Festival, Camper Calling, Secret Garden Party, Shambala, Smukfest Denmark and many more – including a recent appearance at London’s O2 with legends Heather Small, Sybil and Galaxy.

The evening promises to be an unforgettable night of music, dance, and nostalgia, as the band transports you back to the glamorous and exuberant heyday of DISCO. Expect classics from Donna Summer, Bee Gees, Chic, Earth, Wind & Fire – hits including Stayin’ Alive, Le Freak, Boogie Wonderland and many, many more. Performed with Uncle Funk’s legendary flair and passion, alongside eye-popping costumes and super-fly choreography.

You’ve heard the hype, now buy the ticket!
Fancy dress is not mandatory, but wholly encouraged.

Praise for Uncle Funk

Bootsy CollinsGodfather of Funk
Thanks For Keepin’ The Funk Alive.

Robert ‘Kool’ BellKool & The Gang
I LOVE Uncle Funk! Keep on funking!

Graham Gouldman10cc
If you wanna get down with the hippest, funkiest band in the land then go and see Uncle Funk!

 

blackburn-empire-The Searchers Experience Show - Starring Spencer James

The Searchers Experience Show – Starring Spencer James

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Wednesday 14th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Spencer James has been lead vocalist and guitarist with Sixties legends The Searchers for 37 years, prior to their retirement in 2019.

Touring with his own band, The Spencer James Band, during the interim, Spencer and the rest of The Searchers are uniting for a reunion tour.

They have performed in just about every prestigious venue in the world, including Wembley Stadium (with Sir Cliff Richard), National Indoor Arena (Millennium New Year with Sir Cliff), London Palladium, Royal Albert Hall, and Madison Square Garden, including tours of Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, USA, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Las Vegas. He has remained hugely popular throughout this time.

Spencer James was also a member of the band called The First Class, which gave Spencer his first big hit with a song called “Beach Baby” in 1974. They appeared on many TV shows, including Top of the Pops, Lift Off with Aysha, and many European television shows.

Continuing with the legacy of The Searchers, Spencer now presents The Searchers Experience with his backing band – a show that recreates the magic from a band which successfully spanned five decades.

The show offers all the hits and more of The Searchers’ live show, presented with all the personality for which Spencer is known and loved.

 

blackburn-empire-Stax of Soul - Still Groovin’ Tour 2026

Stax of Soul – Still Groovin’ Tour 2026

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Friday 20th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

43 years on… the rhythm remains, the soul endures; the music lives on, and so do we.

After another sensational run in 2025, STAX of SOUL return to The Empire with their Still Groovin’ Tour 2026! From their Manchester beginnings in 1983 to more than four decades of delivering powerhouse soul, the band keeps the music alive, celebrating the hits, the memories, and the fans who’ve made it all possible.

Prepare for an electrifying evening as this legendary nine-piece band brings the greatest soul sounds to life, backed by their signature brass section and unstoppable stage energy. STAX of SOUL delivers timeless classics from Stax, Atlantic, Motown, and Northern Soul, paying tribute to icons such as James Brown and The Blues Brothers.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration! Tickets for STAX of SOUL’s Still Groovin’ Tour 2026 at The Empire are expected to sell fast — secure yours now and join the legacy.

Featuring over 30 classic soul anthems:
~ Get Ready ~ Higher and Higher ~ Tenderness ~ My Girl ~ Stand By Me ~ (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction ~ Give Me Just A Little More Time ~ The Snake ~ Gimme Some Lovin’ ~ Minnie The Moocher ~ Shake a Tail Feather ~ Hold On, I’m Comin’ ~ Soul Man ~ I Got You (I Feel Good) ~ Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag ~ In the Midnight Hour ~ It’s The Same Old Song ~ Stop Her On Sight ~ and many more.

 

blackburn-empire-Sound & Vision – A tribute to David Bowie

Sound & Vision – A tribute to David Bowie

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Thursday 29th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Fasten your seatbelts – the Starman is here!!

Sound & Vision – A Tribute to David Bowie was launched on what would have been Bowie’s 75th birthday in 2022.

While his career spanned five decades, he maintained his relevance to both his long-term ardent fans and younger emerging audiences. There has never been an artist that has offered inspiration to so many people within the music industry. His songs still have the ability to affect and influence music lovers across the world.

What makes Sound & Vision so special is their note-perfect recreation of the legend himself and the iconic musicians he loved to work with. The 7-piece band offers audiences a chance to fully appreciate each complex nuance of his many, many songs. And they’re all there… Ziggy Stardust, Life on Mars, Starman, All the Young Dudes, Rebel-Rebel, China Girl… and so many more.

Chris Burke has an unmatched vocal similarity to Bowie. His vocal ability allows you to enjoy each song being performed as you’d want them to be – perfectly recreating his voice. Close your eyes… you’d think he was in the room.

But it’s not just about the vocals. The musicianship and talent of the other band members is truly world class. The line-up includes:
Jeff John (Lead Guitar), John Wilmott (Bass), Colin Elward (Keyboards), Simon Harry (Rhythm Guitar), Gareth Addey (Drums) and Mike Davies (Saxophone).

The show is mesmerising with lights and a wonderful soundscape, designed to stimulate all your senses… and it includes a few surprises too. Suitable for all ages, and guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles.

Celebrate David Bowie’s amazing music with us. It’ll be a memorable rock experience with the UK’s best sound-alike Bowie show.

 

blackburn-empire-poster-The Kilkennys

The Kilkennys

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Wednesday 2nd September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Following a landmark year celebrating 25 years together, The Kilkennys return to the road in 2026 with a brand-new international tour.

Fresh from the release of their acclaimed 25 Year Celebration album, a double release featuring 25 tracks that blend new recordings with fan favourites, the band are bringing their distinctive energy and sound to audiences across Europe and beyond once again.

Renowned for their lively shows and modern take on traditional Irish folk music, The Kilkennys continue to build on their reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting touring bands. Their 2026 tour showcases the group’s signature harmonies, musicianship, and storytelling, alongside new material developed since the release of their anniversary album.

Featuring Davey Cashin, Tommy Mackey, Mick Martin, and Davey Long, The Kilkennys deliver a performance that celebrates Ireland’s musical spirit, from classic ballads to contemporary folk anthems.

After more than 25 years together, The Kilkennys’ passion for live performance remains as strong as ever, continuing to unite fans through the joy and power of Irish song.

 

blackburn-empire-The ELO Encounter - Face the Music

The ELO Encounter – Face the Music

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Sunday 23rd August 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Roll over Beethoven, because the greatest tribute to Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra is here! In an all live show featuring soaring strings, striking vocal harmonies and playing all the much loved songs from ELO’s hit-filled library including Evil Woman, Telephone Line and Don’t Bring Me Down. The ELO Encounter promises a night filled with rock, roll and Blue Skies that would make even Mozart mambo and Bach boogie! So Hold On Tight because Rock and Roll Is King in a show that is guaranteed to have you partying All Over The World.

Not only flawlessly recreating the wonderful music of ELO, it’s a spectacular live show from start to finish. Stunning lights and special effects create an atmosphere that will have you fully immersed in the whole experience. As The ELO Encounter reel off ELO classic hit after hit, it’s guaranteed to have the hairs on the back of your neck dancing in time to the music!

As a recent reviewer remarked, “Not really a tribute, that cheapens what this band does, which is to transport you back to those days. So sensitively and authentically done, at times it felt like it was actually ELO being mirrored up there on the stage”.

That’s what The ELO Encounter tribute show is all about.

★★★★★ “An incredible evening! It isn't often we get shows of your calibre!” — Muni Theatre, Colne
★★★★★ “A brilliant night out” — Steve Scruton – BBC Radio
★★★★★ “Amazing … a fantastic band” — Tony Fisher – BBC Radio
★★★★★ “I’ve never seen such a standing ovation here!” — Braintree Arts Theatre
★★★★★ “Simply outstanding … thank you ELO Encounter” — RoadHouse Birmingham
★★★★★ “Certainly went down a storm!” — Quay Theatre
★★★★★ “Best Tribute band we have seen at the Fisher.” — Fisher Theatre

 

blackburn-empire-The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Saturday 17th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Along with the many fans who mourn the loss of Freddie Mercury, The Freddie & The Queen Experience aim to celebrate the wealth of talent that came together in Queen by recreating, with breathtaking accuracy, the style and excitement of a LIVE Queen concert, which sadly, will never be seen with Freddie Mercury again.

The Freddie & QUEEN Experience are the UK's Premier Queen & Freddie Mercury Tribute Band, who are internationally & critically acclaimed.

The band performs all over the world with sell out shows in the UK & abroad since 2018. Their dynamic tribute to Queen show has headlined many big festivals & selling out theatres across the UK throughout their career. The show is internationally acclaimed, including, most recently, in 2025 they performed a successful month-long theatre tour in Canada. The band have also performed many successful shows in the UAE & in Europe too. They deliver a passionate & energy packed show just full of all QUEEN's greatest hits!

Ian as Freddie Mercury replicates Freddie Mercury's live shows with the looks, mannerisms, vocals, charisma, passion, high energy & showmanship with fun that Freddie was so loved, adored & famous for.

The fully live band, consisting of some of the finest musicians in the UK, perform with replica outfits, instruments & perform a full recreation of QUEEN's live shows, based around QUEEN at their very best, the ’86 ‘Magic Tour’. It's simply a great show not to be missed!