blackburn-empire-The Story Behind Motown

The Story Behind Motown

    MUSIC

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Sunday 7th February 2027 at 2:30pm


For one night only

Back by popular demand and standing ovations!

Welcome once again to a world of Motown magic.

Join us on a journey through the golden years of Motown, blended with the smooth sounds of soul. “The Story Behind Motown” celebrates the legendary legacy founded by Mr. Berry Gordy Jr., taking you right back to where it all began – Detroit City, the home of Hitsville U.S.A.

Enjoy original footage on the big screen alongside timeless classics performed live by our two outstanding vocalists, Anita and Courtney, whose stunning harmonies bring the music to life.

Expect spectacular costume changes throughout, plus The Supreme Dancers, who will have the crowd on their feet, singing and dancing along to unforgettable hits from:

The Temptations – Jackie Wilson – Diana Ross & The Supremes – Sam Cooke – Smokey Robinson – The Drifters – Marvin Gaye

…and so many more!

So grab your dancing shoes and warm up those singing voices as we take you on another trip through the Motown years!

What audiences said at our last visit to the Blackburn Empire:

⭐ “We enjoyed every minute. It was brilliant — well done to all of you!”

⭐ “It was a great show, well done to everyone involved!”

⭐ “Absolutely amazing — wow, the dresses were gorgeous!”

⭐ “What a show! Beautiful singers and dancers. Can’t wait for next time.”

⭐ “Brilliant show! Now I know more about Motown. Didn’t want it to end.”

⭐ “Seen it twice now and love it! Couldn’t stop dancing!”

…and many more!

 

blackburn-empire-The Spice Party – Celebrating 30 Years of the Spice Girls

The Spice Party – Celebrating 30 Years of the Spice Girls

    MUSIC

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Friday 9th July 2027 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get ready to Spice Up Your Life! Join us for the ultimate celebration of 30 years of Girl Power with The Spice Party — a dazzling live concert experience packed with all the hits, iconic looks, and unstoppable energy of the Spice Girls!

From Wannabe to Stop, Say You’ll Be There to Viva Forever, this feel-good show brings the magic, music, and memories of the 90s back to life. Grab your friends, bring your best dance moves, and get ready for a night of fun, friendship, and pure pop nostalgia.

Because when it comes to The Spice Party – friendship never ends!

 

blackburn-empire-VIVA LA VIDA - The Greatest Hits Of Coldplay

VIVA LA VIDA – The Greatest Hits Of Coldplay

    MUSIC

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Saturday 18th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

“Absolute Paradise for Coldplay Fans”

The closest thing you will see to Coldplay anywhere on the planet!

VIVA LA VIDA – The Greatest Hits of Coldplay is a truly authentic tribute celebration of the British hitmakers' iconic 25-year career.

With a sensational live band and a truly charismatic frontman, this show features the closest lookalike to Chris Martin you’ve ever seen. Audiences are amazed by his striking likeness, combined with the same incredible and haunting vocal range and power.

This inclusive tribute production captivates and recreates the euphoric vibrancy and colourful energy of a live Coldplay concert, delivering a real ‘festival headline performance’ feel.

Featuring all of the biggest hits, including:Yellow, Viva La Vida, Clocks, Paradise, Fix You, and the latest number one single feelslikeimfallinginlove and We Pray from Moon Music.

Become the honorary ‘fifth’ member of the band as we invite you to sing, dance, laugh, and love with VIVA LA VIDA – The Greatest Hits of Coldplay.

 

blackburn-empire-The History of Rock

The History of Rock

    MUSIC

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Friday 10th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Relive the greatest years of rock live
on stage!

THE HISTORY OF ROCK is back and ready to
take you on the ultimate journey through the genre’s most iconic and
electrifying eras!

Forget the history books—this year,
we're putting a spotlight on the greatest years of rock! From stadium-shaking
concerts and iconic festivals to legendary albums and unforgettable anthems,
prepare for a thrilling, year-by-year celebration of the moments that defined a
generation.

Experience the sound and energy of the
'70s and '80s with a massive, hand-picked setlist featuring a wide mix of
classic rock giants. Think Queen, Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC, Metallica, Black
Sabbath, and many more! Whether it was a pivotal album release or a legendary
live performance, we're bringing the most important milestones of rock history
back to life.

Featuring an exceptional band of
world-class musicians, you’ll hear these iconic songs performed with power,
precision, and passion.

Don't miss the ultimate rock and roll
time machine! Join us for a concert celebration of the greatest years and
relive the music that changed the world.

Book your tickets now and experience THE
HISTORY OF ROCK!

 

blackburn-empire-The Big Yellow Tambourine Man Band  Celebrate The Iconic Music of Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell

The Big Yellow Tambourine Man Band Celebrate The Iconic Music of Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell

    MUSIC

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Sunday 7th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell are both ranked in Rolling Stone’s ‘Top Ten Singer-Songwriters of All Time’ and their legacy is honoured in this stunning tribute, ‘The Big Yellow Tambourine Man Band’.

With unrivalled musical authenticity this multi-instrumentalist five-piece covers all the hits including ‘Like a Rolling Stone’, ‘Both Sides Now’, ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’, and ‘Big Yellow Taxi’. The band is fronted by Bob Thomson and Isabelle Nutton as Bob and Joni.

An exhilarating evening of songwriting genius, expertly presented with passion and humour. Audiences will be taken on a journey through Joni’s and Bob’s histories, poetry and artistry, their trademark guitars and pianos backed by a full band and augmented with the evocative sounds of the Wurlitzer, harmonica and dulcimer.

Be totally swept along on the trip by loving recreations of the pair’s most recognisable finery, with stops in Greenwich Village, Laurel Canyon, Isle of Wight and beyond. This talented and enigmatic freewheelin’ five-piece with an eye for detail will make you feel like you’re really there, man…

 

blackburn-empire-STRONG ENOUGH – Ultimate Tribute Concert to Cher

STRONG ENOUGH – Ultimate Tribute Concert to Cher

    MUSIC

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Thursday 22nd October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get ready for an unforgettable evening, celebrating the global superstar and great female icon that is Cher.
Featuring all of the classic hits including Turn Back Time, I Found Someone, Believe, Strong Enough, Gypsies Tramps and Thieves, her modern Abba remixes and many more.

This is one show-stopping dazzling extravaganza you do not want to miss!
This show will take you on a musical journey from the Dark Lady days, to the rocking 80’s perm days and the celebration disco hits as we TURN BACK TIME and celebrate the queen of pop and rock.

‘Strong Enough’ features 25 smash hits, six decades of stardom and enough costume changes to cause a sequins shortage…
With full live band and dancers, come along and experience the passion, the flair and the glitter!

 

blackburn-empire-The Johnny Cash Roadshow: The Prison Years Tour

The Johnny Cash Roadshow: The Prison Years Tour

    MUSIC

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Thursday 15th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

This year Johnny Cash Roadshow invites you to step into the raw and gritty world of Johnny Cash's prison era with their electrifying show that has captivated audiences for two decades.

Set on a Folsom Prison style stage, this production brings Cash’s most iconic performances to life, immersing you in the raw, unfiltered energy of his legendary concerts behind bars.

Award-winning Clive John, hailed as an exceptional Cash, channels the spirit of the legend with his unique warmth and authenticity. He is joined by the captivating Ashley Cavell as June Carter and an ensemble of world-class musicians.

With standing ovations every night, the Johnny Cash Roadshow is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that leaves audiences yearning for more.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unparalleled celebration of Johnny Cash – the show that keeps his spirit alive, stronger than ever.

“Clive captures my Grandfather JUST as he was.”
Caitlin Crowell, Granddaughter of Johnny Cash

 

blackburn-empire-Sugar Pie Honey Bunch

Sugar Pie Honey Bunch

    MUSIC

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Friday 5th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

THE ONLY AMERICAN TRIBUTE SHOW CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF THE FOUR TOPS AND OTHER LEGENDARY MOTOWN ARTISTS TOURING THE UK

Paying homage to the legends, vocal group Soul Satisfaction brings the Motown magic back to the stage in a live concert with powerful vocals, splendid harmonies and high stepping dance routines.

You will be taken on a journey through all the hits of the Four TopsReach Out, Baby I Need Your Loving, Walk Away Renée, Same Old Song, Loco in Acapulco, Standing In the Shadow, Bernadette – along with other classic hits from the golden era, including songs from The Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, Ben E. King and many more Motown and soul legends.

One of Motown’s most legendary songwriters, Eddie Holland, from the Holland-Dozier-Holland team (responsible for all of the Four Tops’ greatest hits as well as other Motown classics), said:

"Soul Satisfaction is one of the most professional and tightest vocal groups that I have seen – and I have seen many groups in my time!"
Eddie Holland

Performed as it was back in the day, this show is world class!

Soul Satisfaction Guaranteed!
Reach Out and Get Ready Cos Here They Come!

DISCLAIMER: This show is a tribute, concept style show and not affiliated or endorsed by any original artistes/estates/management. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme at any given time.

 

blackburn-empire-poster-The Kilkennys

The Kilkennys

    MUSIC

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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

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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