blackburn-empire-Tony Christie

Tony Christie – The Great Farewell

    MUSIC

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Monday 1st September 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The legendary crooner continues to entertain audiences around the world with incredible showmanship, an unmistakable powerful vocal, and a setlist that packs a punch—captivating generation after generation.

From one of the biggest-selling singles of the past two decades, ‘Is This The Way to Amarillo’, to other classics including ‘Avenues & Alleyways’, ‘Walk Like A Panther’, ‘Las Vegas’, and ‘I Did What I Did For Maria’, through to new singles ‘Thank You For Being A Friend’, ‘Home, Home, Home’ & ‘Just Like Yesterday’, Tony brings his signature style to the stage.

This unmissable show also features show-stopping covers from the late greats that helped shape the career of this humble veteran from Yorkshire.

In 2025, Tony will perform a select handful of shows along with his band, commemorating his triumphant 60+ year career. With no sign of slowing down, Tony Christie is living proof that age is just a number—and there’s beauty in experience.

 

blackburn-empire-Legends of Motown

Legends of Motown

    MUSIC

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Thursday 30th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Legends of Motown is a high energy tribute show jam packed with all of Motown’s biggest hits, with stunning vocals and amazing live band, celebrating the music of the iconic and timeless Motown era. Undoubtedly the golden era of music, the show pays tribute to the legendary artists that appeared on the Motown label at that time.

Get ready to be wowed with a song list that won’t fail to have you up and out of your seats and dancing in the aisles. Make it a night to remember with the music authentic to the Motown label from artists such as Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, The Temptations, Jimmy Ruffin and many more!

“Legends of Motown delivered a powerful performance with stellar musicianship and contagious energy. Superb vocals, pitch-perfect harmonies, classic tunes and undeniable musical talent ensured an enjoyable atmosphere and experience for all in attendance.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ – backseatmafia.com

“The show is well executed with a fiery setlist – not a single seat was down by the end of the night as they had everyone dancing in the aisles.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“They had so much energy that flowed through to the audience, with amazing vocals that are perfectly accompanied by an extremely high quality band.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

 

blackburn-empire-Showaddywaddy

Showaddywaddy

    MUSIC

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Saturday 23rd August 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

'The Greatest Rock & Roll Band In The World' is a bold statement but Showaddywaddy has lived up to that title for the last 5 decades!

Formed in the 1970s in Leicester from several local bands, they have sold more than 20 million records and have toured all corners of the World extensively.

Their live show is dynamic and uplifting featu ring all of their biggest hits, many of which reached number one in the pop charts of Europe. 'Under The Moon of Love', 'Three Steps to Heaven', 'Hey Rock & Roll', 'When', 'Blue Moon', 'Pretty Little Angel Eyes' and many, many more.

So come and join the 'Dancin Party Youve Got What It Takes!

 

Songs From The Rat Pack – The Northern Swing Orchestra

    MUSIC

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Sunday 28th September 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get Ready for an unforgettable
night with The Sixteen Piece Northern Swing Orchestra at The Blackburn Empire
Theatre
on Sunday
28th September 2025!

It’s all systems go for
Yorkshire’s premier Big Band, The Sixteen Piece Northern Swing Orchestra, as
they gear up for an electrifying performance.

Prepare yourself for an
evening packed with timeless music, irresistible rhythms, and entertainment
guaranteed to have you tapping your feet and singing along. With their
sensational Rat Pack and Big Band Show, this will be an event to
remember!

Featuring the legendary hits
of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., alongside the
swingin' classics of Count Basie, the night will transport you back to
the golden age of music. Expect to hear iconic songs like “The Lady Is a
Tramp”, “Me and My Shadow”,
and “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”,
along with swinging instrumental numbers like “Flight of the Foo Birds”, “Splanky”
and “Sweet Georgia Brown”.

With three incredible
vocalists
delivering smooth, powerful performances, you’ll be swept away by
the charm, energy, and unforgettable tunes that defined the Rat Pack era.

Don’t miss this chance to
experience a night of world-class music and nostalgia! Join us for an evening
that promises to be a highlight of the year.

www.northernswingorchestra.co.uk

 

blackburn-empire-Jive Talkin' perform the Bee Gees

Jive Talkin’ perform the Bee Gees

    MUSIC

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Friday 12th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Renowned as the original and very best Bee Gees tribute show, and THE ONLY Bee Gees tribute show that has actually performed with the original Bee Gees! In 1997 Gary & Darren from Jive Talkin performed LIVE on HEART FM with THE BEE GEES and received great compliments from both Maurice and Barry Gibb.

As with the original Bee Gees, Jive Talkin is very much a family affair, with brothers Gary and Darren Simmons taking the roles of Barry and Maurice Gibb, with Darren's son Jack joining the group in 2014 and taking on the role of Robin Gibb. The guys are supported musically by a four piece band with Lead Guitar, Violin, Cello and Drums, to ensure that every note in every song is just right!

Wherever the group play they receive superb plaudits; "The Soundalike quality is quite sensational" (The Stage), "Amazing similarity to the real Bee Gees" (Wakefield Express), Absolutely Brilliant (Maurice Gibb), WOW (Barry Gibb).

For a truly amazing experience and an opportunity to hear all the great Bee Gees hits; Tragedy, Night Fever, Massachusetts, Stayin Alive, jive Talkin, etc, in a 2 hour explosion of music and vocal harmony, this is a night not to be missed!

 

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

Join us as we celebrate a rock line-up like no other headlined by one of the greatest bands of all time!

As always, we'll be taking audiences on a thrilling ride through the history of rock – but this time, we're turning the spotlight on Led Zeppelin, as they headline the ultimate rock concert line-up the world has ever seen.

A must see for any fan of ROCK!
Experience this iconic music brought back to life by an exceptional band consisting of some of the finest musicians and performers from around the world.

So join us and experience a rock show like no other with THE HISTORY OF ROCK!

 

blackburn-empire-Truly Collins

Truly Collins

    MUSIC

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Thursday 2nd October 2025 at 7:30pm


by Presented by Seventh Avenue Arts for one night only

Truly Collins is
the hit show that celebrates the unforgettable music of Phil Collins &
Genesis.
As seen on USA's NBC, the show is by far the most authentic sounding
tribute to Phil Collins. His performances have been described as breathtaking!

From Phil's
charting topping classics 'In the Air Tonight', 'Sussudio',and 'Easy Lover' to the Genesis hits 'I Can't
Dance', 'Invisible Touch' and 'In Too Deep' the show will have you waving your
arms and singing along all night.

“He sounds just like Phil Collins,
unbelievable!”– BBC Radio

Visit the Facebook Page

 

blackburn-empire-The UK Rock Show

The UK Rock Show

    MUSIC

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Sunday 21st September 2025 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-Too Much Too Young

Too Much Too Young

    MUSIC

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Thursday 12th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The UK’s biggest and only dedicated Ska theatre experience is sweeping the nation with a string of sell-out performances!

Get ready for an electrifying night of music with Too Much Too Young – The Music of 2Tone & Beyond, a high-octane, two-hour theatre experience that takes audiences on an unforgettable ride through the ska sound that shaped generations. This feel-good journey explores the birth of ska in Jamaica and follows its explosive history through to the British revival in the late '70s and '80s, celebrating the groundbreaking music and the legendary artists who made it a global phenomenon.

A must-see for any ska fan, the show is earning 5-star reviews from fans and critics alike. Featuring a powerhouse 9-piece live band, including original members from iconic chart-topping groups like The Specials and The Selecter, the production is a feast for the senses with stunning digital video displays, authentic instruments, vibrant costumes, and a dynamic cast that brings the spirit of the era to life.

Prepare to be transported back in time with hits from the likes of Madness, The Specials, The Beat, Bad Manners, The Selecter, The Bodysnatchers, and more! Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the magic of ska for the first time, this nostalgic trip to the '70s and '80s will have you dancing in the aisles!

 

blackburn-empire-The Story Behind Motown

The Story Behind Motown

    MUSIC

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Friday 12th September 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Step into the world of Motown and experience the magic behind the music that defined an era. The Story Behind Motown, founded by the legendary Mr Berry Gordy Jr., takes you on an unforgettable journey back to Detroit City, famously known as Hitsville USA.

Featuring original footage shown on the big screen and classic hits performed by the incredibly talented singers Anita and Courtney, this show is a tribute to the golden years of Motown. With stunning harmonies, iconic dress changes, and two high-energy dancers, you'll be up on your feet singing and dancing along to the timeless hits of The Four Tops, Jackie Wilson, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Sam Cooke, and many more.

This captivating production also includes soulful touches from artists like The Drifters, Marvin Gaye, and even a little Northern Soul for good measure.

Here’s what audiences are saying:

  • "We enjoyed every minute. It was brilliant! Well done to all of you!"
  • "What a great show, well done to all involved!"
  • "Absolutely amazing, and the dresses were gorgeous."
  • "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."

So, grab your dancing shoes and singing voices as we take you back through the Motown years once again. This is a show you won’t want to miss!