blackburn-empire-Choose Geroge: Celebrating George Michael

Choose George: Celebrating George Michael

    MUSIC

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Thursday 8th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

With the production now in its third year, CHOOSE GEORGE – Celebrating George Michael continues to amaze fans throughout the UK and Europe. The show features early Wham! hits right through to George Michael’s later songs, all performed perfectly by the incomparable Steve Mitchell.

Steve is considered by many to be the closest George’s vocal fan for most of his life, which is apparent in his detailed and passionate performance of the songs. Shirley Lewis (George Michael’s long-time backing vocalist) said “…Having listened to George Michael up close and personal, Steve has a similar timbre to my ear”.

The show also features Ex-Wham! bassist, Dave West who worked with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley on the first sessions for Wham Rap, Careless Whisper and Club Tropicana.

Just a few quotes from George fans at recent shows…

“Absolutely the most spectacular and special thing I have ever seen…”
“So like the real George. You’ve got to see him…”
“The energy was incredible. Constant dancing…”
“Steve has the voice of George Michael, so uncanny and incredible. Close your eyes and its George Michael.”BBC

 

blackburn-empire-Briana Corrigan

Briana Corrigan

    MUSIC

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Tuesday 28th October 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Belfast born Corrigan is best known for delivering Beautiful South’s most successful single, the chart topping, No1, Brit award winning A Little Time where her unique vocal –“one of the most distinctive voices in pop” (Time Out) and Heaton’s brilliantly acerbic lyrics and catchy melody combined to create an unforgettable anthem to broken love.

This is a rare opportunity to hear Corrigan’s “stupendous vocal” (NME) up close and personal as she entertains with an evening of story and song. Expect Beautiful South classics, nestled among her own beautifully crafted songs and some unique takes on traditional favourites – all combining to pack an intimate, heart-warming, emotional and joyous punch of connection.

Q magazine:her forte…. chest hugging breast beating balladry of the highest calibre
Melody Maker:A revelation!
Hot Press:a songwriter of wit and elegance
Melody Maker:It’s like listening to someone sing you a story. The rain outside is drifting along the glass and this is a good soundtrack to the tale of its falling

 

blackburn-empire-9 to 5 The Musical

9 to 5 The Musical

    MUSIC

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From Thu 22nd January 2026 to Sun 25th January 2026


by Create Theatre Academy – 5 shows to choose from.

Clock in for a night of hilarity and mischief with Dolly Parton’s smash-hit musical 9 to 5! Inspired by the beloved film and created with Dolly Parton’s iconic music and lyrics, this uplifting show is a hilarious and inspiring story of friendship and empowerment.

Join us as three determined women navigate the ups and downs of the corporate world, challenging the status quo—and transforming their workplace and themselves along the way. Packed with humour, heart, and memorable musical numbers, this production promises to leave you laughing and singing in your seats.

Don’t miss your chance to see this feel-good musical that celebrates resilience, friendship, and the power of standing up for what’s right.

Grab your tickets now for 9 to 5: The Musical — it’s a show you’ll be talking about long after the curtain closes!

 

blackburn-empire-Annie the Musical

Annie the Musical

    MUSIC

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From Thu 2nd April 2026 to Sun 5th April 2026


by Create Theatre Academy – 6 shows to choose from.

Join us for the heartwarming musical "Annie," where hope shines bright even in the darkest times! This beloved tale follows the spirited orphan Annie as she dreams of finding her parents and escaping the cruel orphanage run by the infamous Miss Hannigan.

When Annie gets the chance to spend a week with the wealthy Oliver Warbucks, her unwavering optimism transforms the lives of everyone around her. With catchy songs like "Tomorrow" and "It's a Hard Knock Life," this production promises laughter, tears, and inspiration. Experience the joy of friendship, love, and resilience as Annie embarks on an unforgettable journey that proves a little hope can change everything. Don't miss your chance to be inspired—come see "Annie"!

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Bon Jovi Forever

Bon Jovi Forever

    MUSIC

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Saturday 28th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

BON JOVI FOREVER – The only Bon Jovi tribute show you need to see! 

A high energy, electric packed show guaranteed to raise your hands.

BJF are committed to reviving the 80/90s style show, receiving rave reviews from fans and venue's all over the UK.

Every performance is action packed and delivered with the artistry, energy and passion of the real thing.

A stunning stage show coupled with effects and explosions will make you believe you're watching the Real Bon Jovi from back in their heyday.

This show is guaranteed to give any fan of Bon Jovi ‘One Wild Night’.

 

Club 80s Live

    MUSIC

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Saturday 25th October 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The Club 80's Live show will take you on a rollercoaster ride back through one of the greatest eras of music.

This disco for grown-ups will have you smiling all night long.

Hits by Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Guns & Roses, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Erasure, Bon Jovi, Wham, Deacon Blue! and many, many more are crammed into a non-stop, musical trip, back-combed, to the time that fashion forgot.

A band tighter than a Spandex leotard and dancers shining brighter than all the neon in Vegas will support a cast that stands head and shoulder pads above the rest, in a show where the costume changes come just as thick and fast as the hits.

So, give the Rubik’s Cube a night off and get ready to be taken back to an era of music that people will never forget. Whether you were workin’ as a waitress in a cocktail
bar
or just a city boy, let Club 80’s take your hand back to the happiest days of your life.

Dress up in your favorite leg warmers and spandex for your chance to be crowned the BEST DRESSED at the show.

 

blackburn-empire-Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story

Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story

    MUSIC

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Friday 17th October 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Join Barry
Steele’s Roy Orbison Story for an unforgettable evening celebrating the
legendary Roy Orbison and the iconic Traveling Wilburys!

Experience
captivating performance’s that brings the timeless hits and heartfelt stories
to life. Enjoy classic hits like "Oh, Pretty Woman,"
"Crying," and "Only the Lonely,"
performed with passion and
authenticity and relive the magic of the Travelling Wilburys with favourites
such as "Handle with Care" and "End of the Line." 

With a
sprinkling of selected songs from Johnny Cash, ELO, and Tom Petty, The Roy
Orbison Story showcases the vast influence of The Big O and his friends on rock
and pop music. 

Barry
Steele, a celebrated performer, captures the essence of these musical icons
with his dynamic stage presence and vocal talent. – Not only is this production
perfect for fans of all ages, this show also promises to take you on a
nostalgic journey through some of the greatest songs in music history. 

Feel the
energy of live performance as the show  brings these classic songs to life
in a way that only a live show can. Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic
of Roy Orbison and his contemporaries! Grab your friends and family and get
ready for a night filled with unforgettable music and memories. 

 

blackburn-empire-poster-The Swing Commanders

The Swing Commanders

    MUSIC

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Thursday 9th October 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The Swing Commanders are a stunningly vibrant and versatile group that perform an exciting mix of 1940s Classics, Boogie-Woogie, Western Swing, 50’s Jump Jazz and more!

Every member of the Swing Commanders sings and plays at least one instrument, sometimes three! Yet what makes them stand out even above their incredible music ability is their joie-de-vivre. The band members have a wealth of musical experience, from bar room to classical concert hall, as well as an understanding of dance and theatre. This results in a stage show that is technically precise and wildly entertaining.

People who experience the band for the first time are amazed at the energetic showmanship, the instrument swapping, the intricate arrangements, and sophisticated vocal blend. Whether you want to sit and listen, or dance the night away, this is the band for you!

 

blackburn-empire-Songbird: A Celebration of Eva Cassidy

Songbird: A Celebration of Eva Cassidy

    MUSIC

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Thursday 9th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Songbird: A Celebration of Eva Cassidy honours and pays tribute to one of America's most renowned singers, who found posthumous fame with her heartfelt and spellbinding interpretations of classic songs, including ‘Over The Rainbow’, ‘Fields of Gold’, and ‘Songbird’.

The show is performed by four world-class jazz musicians and passionate Eva Cassidy fans, blending their own artistic interpretations with Eva’s classic renditions for a moving and unforgettable musical 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.” ★ ★ ★ ★ ★