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

The Searchers Experience Show – Starring Spencer James

    MUSIC

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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-The UK Rock Show

The UK Rock Show

    MUSIC

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Saturday 26th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Harder Rock Productions is proud to bring you ‘The UK Rock Show’!

Get ready to be transported back to the 80s heyday of classic rock, combining the feel of a rock festival with the atmosphere of a top-end rock arena tour.

Expect fireworks, flames, amazing lighting, and exacting attention to detail as this amazing 5-piece band recreate hits from rock gods such as Journey, Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Kiss, AC/DC, Van Halen, and many more!

If you are a fan of live classic rock, this is the show for you!

www.theukrockshow.co.uk

 

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-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.

 

Patience

    MUSIC

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From Wed 22nd April 2026 to Sat 25th April 2026


by Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society – 4 shows to choose from.

In a world gone mad with lovesick ladies and pretentious men, the women abandon their handsome soldiers and instead pursue the fake poet Reginald Bunthorne, who thrives on admiration. But he loves the village milkmaid, Patience, who doesn't like poetry or understand love. When Patience finally learns what love is, it is Reginald’s rival she falls for: Archibald Grosvenor, another insipid poet who thinks all women adore him. All the women (except one) fall for him and desert Bunthorne. Then fashions change, the poets become ordinary and the women return to the soldiers. Just one or two romantic loose ends remain…

 

blackburn-empire-Thank ABBA for the Music

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!

 

blackburn-empire-Roxette UK

Roxette UK

    MUSIC

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Friday 13th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Roxette UK is the ultimate tribute band dedicated to recreating the electrifying pop hits of the legendary Swedish duo, Roxette.

With infectious energy, captivating stage presence, and a faithful dedication to the original sound, Roxette UK delivers a truly authentic experience for fans of all ages.

Formed by a group of passionate musicians, Roxette UK brings the best of the duo’s iconic songs to life, from global hits like “The Look,” “Joyride,” and “Listen to Your Heart” to the unforgettable “It Must Have Been Love.” Their performances capture the essence of Roxette’s infectious pop-rock melodies, blending upbeat rhythms with heartfelt ballads that made the band a worldwide sensation.

This is a show that perfectly emulates the vibrant chemistry between Per Gessle and Marie Fredriksson, with a lead vocalist who mirrors Marie’s powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. Performed by a hand-picked group of seasoned musicians, the show passionately stays true to the iconic sound that defined Roxette’s music.

Whether you’re reliving the golden era of 80s and 90s pop or discovering these classic songs for the first time, Roxette UK guarantees an unforgettable night of nostalgia, fun, and pure pop magic.

Roxette UK is more than just a tribute – it’s an immersive celebration of Roxette’s musical legacy, bringing fans together to experience the joy, love, and power of their timeless hits.

 

blackburn-empire-Rave On

Rave On

    MUSIC

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Saturday 21st March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Rave On is the 50s and 60s musical sensation sweeping the nation!

From the emergence of Rock and Roll at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, to the British Invasion and beyond, this is a musical adventure you won’t want to miss.

Charting the meteoric rise of Rock and Roll, Rave On is a thrilling tour through music’s most revolutionary decades. Join us for an exhilarating evening of toe-tapping, sing-along iconic classics, vibrant vintage costumes, colourful staging, and dancing in the aisles!

Take a step back in time and experience the history of rock and roll music like never before. Rave On includes hits from the likes of Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, The Beatles, Connie Francis, Neil Sedaka, Little Richard, Roy Orbison, Lulu, The Beach Boys, and many more.

No modern gimmicks—just note-perfect renditions of the most loved sounds from the decades that gifted us Rock and Roll.

Performed by an incredibly talented, era-obsessed group of young musicians, this brand-new show features leading performers from West End productions including The Buddy Holly Story, Million Dollar Quartet, and Dreamboats & Petticoats.

Transporting you back to the fabulous 50s and swinging 60s in stunningly authentic style, Rave On promises to be a musical experience like no other.