blackburn-empire-Patience

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-Oh What A Night!

Oh What A Night!

    MUSIC

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Friday 27th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

OH WHAT A NIGHT! takes you back in time on a musical journeythrough the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, now immortalised in the multi-award-winning show Jersey Boys, which has been packing theatres worldwidesince its debut in 2005.

Valli’s unmistakable voicedominated the airwaves for more than two decades with classics such as:
Sherry, Let’s Hang On, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, My Eyes Adored You, December ’63 (Oh What A Night), Bye Bye Baby, Who Loves Youand many, many more.

With a repertoire that needs no introduction, OH WHAT A NIGHT!combines infectious personalities, amazing vocals, slick harmonies, and even slicker dance movesto deliver a show full of energy and nostalgiathat will leave you wanting more!

Don’t miss the ultimate celebrationof one of the world’s greatest Rock & Roll bands!

 

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.

 

blackburn-empire-ONE VOICE – The Music of Barry Manilow

ONE VOICE – The Music of Barry Manilow

    MUSIC

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Saturday 12th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Prepare to be mesmerized by an extraordinary tribute to the legendary Barry Manilow!

Experience the magic in this spectacular live concert, featuring a full band, dazzling showgirls, and an electrifying celebration of Manilow’s iconic music and career.

Immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening as you journey through a collection of timeless hits, including:

Copacabana, Mandy, I Write the Songs, Can’t Smile Without You, I Made It Through the Rain, Could It Be Magic, and many more!

Join us for a night of nostalgia, passion, and pure musical brilliance as we pay tribute to one of the greatest entertainers of all time.

This is more than just a concert—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss!

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Pinked Floyd

Pinked Floyd

    MUSIC

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Friday 10th July 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Pinked Floyd are delighted to return to one of their favourite venues, the Empire Theatre Blackburn, with a spectacular evening packed with cherished favourites from the timeless albums:

Dark Side of the Moon, The Wall, The Division Bell, Wish You Were Here, Animals, A Momentary Lapse of Reason — as well as delving deeper into the Floyd back catalogue.

This band of quality performers have an almost fanatical devotion to reproducing the very best versions of tracks from original albums, studio sessions, and Pink Floyd’s famous live tours for their audience’s pleasure.

Expect:

  • Stunning guitar riffs

  • Spine-tingling keyboards

  • Saxophone solos

  • Beautiful female vocal harmonies

  • Thumping bass and rhythm lines
    All held together by charismatic front man Russ Samuels.

To complete the sensory experience, there is a mesmerising light and laser show complete with the iconic circular video screen – making this a night not to miss for lovers of Pink Floyd.

 

blackburn-empire-Moments Of Pleasure - Ultimate Tribute to Kate Bush

Moments Of Pleasure – Ultimate Tribute to Kate Bush

    MUSIC

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Sunday 20th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Moments of Pleasure: The Ultimate Tribute to Kate Bush present This Woman’s Work, a journey through the career of one of the UK’s greatest musical artists.

Featuring the astounding vocal performance of Lisa-Marie Walters and a band of virtuoso musicians, Moments of Pleasure are hailed by The Sunday Times Magazine as one of
the UK’s top 10 tributes. Widely acclaimed as the closest you can get to experiencing Kate Bush live, the band have been exciting audiences across the country for over five years.

Kate Bush’s debut single, Wuthering Heights, was nothing short of a phenomenon. She was the first female artist to have a self-penned No. 1 hit, at only nineteen years old, and has not stopped her artistic innovation since. With every album she has broken new ground and yet has still managed to consistently make music that masses of people want to listen to.

Join Moments of Pleasure as they take you through Kate’s astonishing body of work from The Kick Inside to Aerial. The show includes hits like the mischievous Babooshka and surprise 21st Century smash Running Up That Hill, through fan favourites such as Them Heavy People and Hammer Horror, to a few deep cuts like Night of The Swallow and The Wedding List.

This is an evening that no Kate Bush fan would want to miss. A joyous celebration of all things Kate!

“With your eyes closed, you could be in the presence of the originator. If you need to hear these songs live, this is the way to do it.” – ROCKFIEND

“It’s good to know that we can still hear accurate live renditions of Kate’s music today courtesy of the likes of Lisa-Marie.” – CHOICE RADIO, WORCESTER

 

blackburn-empire-Simply Red Tribute: Holding Back The Years

Simply Red Tribute: Holding Back The Years

    MUSIC

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Thursday 27th August 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

With over 50 million albums sold worldwide and a catalogue of chart-topping hits such as "Holding Back The Years", "Stars", "Fairground", “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”, and “If You Don’t Know Me By Now”, Simply Red stand as one of Britain’s most iconic bands.

Paying meticulous attention to detail, Holding Back The Years faithfully recreates the authentic Simply Red concert experience. Whether performing in intimate venues or on the largest stages, this tribute band is dedicated to capturing the unique atmosphere and energy of a live Simply Red show.

At the core of Holding Back The Years is an exceptional lead vocalist, supported by a band of world class musicians. Together, they reproduce the distinctive sound and era-defining style of Mick Hucknall and Simply Red.

Join us as we honour one of the greatest British bands in history. Whether you’re a long-time Simply Red fan or simply appreciate superb musicianship and classic hits, you can look forward to a memorable evening filled with timeless music.

 

blackburn-empire-It's A Beautiful Noise with Fisher Stevens - The Neil Diamond tribute

It’s A Beautiful Noise with Fisher Stevens – The Neil Diamond tribute

    MUSIC

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Friday 30th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

From London's West End to your doorstep

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled celebration of the legendary Neil Diamond's music with our internationally acclaimed production!

Fisher Stevens Takes Center Stage:
Experience the sheer brilliance of Fisher Stevens, undeniably one of the BEST Neil Diamond impersonators. Direct from the Lyric Theatre in London's Shaftesbury Avenue, Fisher Stevens and our fantastic cast of professional musicians and singers are ready to transport you through five decades of musical brilliance.

A Musical Icon Celebrated:
Neil Diamond, a musical icon with a career spanning over five decades, has left an indelible mark on the music world. From his Brill Building hits to The Jazz Singer and unforgettable live concerts, his legacy is celebrated in every note of this exceptional show.

Sparkling Musical Gems:
Join us on a musical adventure like no other, revisiting over 130 million albums' worth of classic hits. From Love On The Rocks to Sweet Caroline, Forever In Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, I am… I Said, America, Cracklin’ Rosie, Red Red Wine, I’m A Believer, and many more – each song is a sparkling gem that has defined generations.

Don't miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration! Secure your tickets now and get ready to be transported through the timeless sounds of Neil Diamond.

 

blackburn-empire-Folk Rock Pioneers Steeleye Span In Concert

Folk Rock Pioneers Steeleye Span In Concert

    MUSIC

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Sunday 26th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Together for fifty six years now, Steeleye Span changed the face of folk music forever by taking it into the world of gold discs and international tours. Now they return with Conflict, their first full studio album in over five years. All traditional singers have sung modern and self-composed pieces alongside old songs, Conflict is an album that follows in that very tradition. The album’s title was chosen as much to reflect the times we find ourselves in, but also the stretch and tear of our relationship with this planet that hosts us.

The band will undertake a full UK tour in support, their first live dates of the year. As ever – and with such a rich history to choose from – the night will offer a selection of songs from across the years and firm fan favourites.

“Don't miss them…” – The Independent