The Dublin Legends

    MUSIC

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Monday 16th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The Dublin Legends – Sean Cannon, Paul Watchorn, Gerry O’Connor & Shay Kavanagh – keep the spirit of Irish folk music alive, performing all the classic songs and ballads loved the world over: Whiskey in The Jar, Dirty Old Town, The Wild Rover, Seven Drunken Nights, The Rare Auld Times, Molly Malone, The Irish Rover, Black Velvet Band – and many more.

With over 100 years of performing experience between them, the lads have wowed audiences across Europe and beyond, bringing the unmistakable sound of Irish folk to a whole new generation of fans.

It was after the sudden death of founding member Barney McKenna in 2012 and John Sheahan’s decision to retire that it was agreed The Dubliners, as a touring band, would end – and The Dublin Legends were born. Since then, they have carried on the proud tradition, touring extensively and recording albums that celebrate both old favourites and fresh arrangements.

Over the past ten years, the band have continued the legacy of The Dubliners by touring far and wide, playing concerts to a whole new generation of Irish music fans. They have wowed audiences in Iceland, Norway, Finland, The Faroe Islands, Sweden, Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, as well as across England, Scotland & Wales.

From Seven Drunken Nights to Whiskey in The Jar – make sure you join the boys for a pint or two on the road. They would be delighted to see you!

 

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-Stax of Soul - Still Groovin’ Tour 2026

Stax of Soul – Still Groovin’ Tour 2026

    MUSIC

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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

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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-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

 

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The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

    MUSIC

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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!

 

The Class of 55

    MUSIC

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Friday 16th January 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get ready to rock and roll as the Class of '55 reunites for an unforgettable night celebrating the legendary sounds of Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis!

This spectacular production promises to transport you back in time with all the electrifying energy of a live band that will have you dancing in your seat. The Class of '55 comes alive with vibrant visuals that enhance every note and every beat.

Experience the raw power of Johnny Cash, the infectious melodies of Buddy Holly, and the wild, piano-pounding antics of Jerry Lee Lewis—all performed by a talented ensemble that captures the spirit of these rock and roll icons.

Feel the nostalgia in the air as classic hits echo through the venue, accompanied by stunning lighting effects that create an immersive atmosphere. This is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of the music that defined a generation.

Join us for a night filled with laughter, memories, and timeless tunes that continue to inspire and entertain.

Don’t miss your chance to relive the magic of rock and roll history—'It’s a Rock 'n' Roll Rewind'!

 

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Thank ABBA for the Music

    MUSIC

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Sat 7th February at 2:30pm & Sat 7th February 2026 at 7:30pm


Grab your platforms and flares for a journey back in time to when ABBA dominated the charts and ruled the airwaves!

Thank ABBA For The Music is a two-hour theatre ABBA-fest that captures all of the magic and excitement of one of pop history's most successful and entertaining live bands. Featuring all of ABBA's greatest hits, including Dancing Queen, Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Take A Chance On Me, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! Knowing Me Knowing You, SOS, Fernando, Super Trouper and many more!

With stunning costumes, a 7-piece live band, interactive video projection, some tongue-in-cheek Swedish humour, and of course ABBA’s spectacular trademark harmonies – this is the ultimate feel-good party show!

ABBA and 70’s fancy dress optional…but encouraged!

★★★★★ ‘FABBATASTIC NIGHT OUT! – Times & Star
★★★★★ ‘THE BIGGEST PARTY WITH THE UK’S BEST ABBA TRIBUTE’ – The Sands Centre, Carlisle
★★★★★ ‘YOU WERE AMAZING!’ – The Sage Gateshead

Disclaimer: Thank Abba For The Music is a tribute show and is not affiliated or endorsed by the original artist or management company. www.thankabbaforthemusic.co.uk

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Taylor Fever – The Ultimate Tribute to Taylor Swift

Taylor Fever – The Ultimate Tribute to Taylor Swift

    MUSIC

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Friday 9th January 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

Blackburn, get ready to be swept off your feet!

Taylor Fever, the ultimate tribute to the sensational Taylor Swift, is coming to the Empire Theatre on October 3rd, and you’re invited to join in on the excitement!

Secure your spot now by snagging your tickets before they vanish!

Alongside a talented squad of dancers, this tribute act will have you grooving and belting out Taylor’s iconic tunes, from “Ready For It” to “Shake It Off” and beyond.

It’s more than just a concert; it’s a one-of-a-kind live experience that’ll create lasting memories for everyone, regardless of age.

Don’t let this magical evening slip away – be a part of it!

 

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!