Blackburn Empire Theatre
Happy Christmas 🎄
Today, everyone at Blackburn Empire Theatre is sending our warmest wishes – and a heartfelt thank you to the people who make the Empire what it is.
A record year for panto ✨
This year has been especially memorable – we’ve enjoyed a record-breaking panto season, and we’re already seeing record bookings for 2026’s panto, Aladdin, with over 8,000 bookings already made.
People simply love our panto – and once someone tries it, we’re delighted to see them return year after year.
To our audiences ❤️
Thank you for showing up, cheering loudly, laughing, singing along, and supporting live entertainment right here in Blackburn. Every ticket bought, every recommendation to a friend, and every lovely review you leave means the world. You help spread the word, lift the team, and keep the Empire thriving.
Why people love the Empire 🎟️
- Every seat feels close to the action – no complicated tiers.
- The price you see is the price you pay – simple, clear pricing.
- Free parking – easy arrival (and no stress!).
- Great value – entertainment that doesn’t break the bank.
- A warm welcome – from a team we’re incredibly proud of.
Once people discover the benefits of enjoying a show at the Empire, it quickly becomes a new home for entertainment for audiences across Blackburn and the wider Lancashire area.
To our performers, promoters and partners 🌟
To all our performers and promoters: thank you for bringing your talent, creativity and hard work to our stage. Whether it’s a community showcase, a touring production, a gig, a comedy night or a family favourite – you create the moments people remember.
To the schools, associations, clubs and local societies who bring our theatre to life all year round: thank you for choosing the Empire as your home. We’re proud to work alongside so many brilliant groups, including Blackburn Musical Theatre Company, Blackburn Drama Club, and Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society (and so many more). Your passion, commitment, and community spirit are a huge part of what makes the Empire special.
Zoe Taylor Dance Academy 💃
Thank you for the energy, sparkle, and the starring roles you bring to so many of our productions – including panto.
Made for Stage 🎬
Huge thanks to the talented students – and congratulations on your brand new studio!
Go On Tour 🎶😂
Thank you for performing right across the region, bringing music, dance and a touch of comedy to people who aren’t always able to get to a live theatre show. What you do is truly special – and a wonderful reminder of why the arts matter.
To our team 🙌
To our small but incredibly dedicated staff team: thank you for everything you do behind the scenes (and front of house too!) to keep the building running, the show nights smooth, and every visitor welcomed and looked after.
To our award-winning volunteers 🏆
And to our award-winning volunteers – the true heartbeat of the Empire – thank you. This year you were crowned Team of the Year at the Blackburn with Darwen Volunteer Awards, and we couldn’t be prouder. Quite simply, without our volunteers, the Empire would not be the amazing live arts complex it is today for our surrounding area and beyond. Thank you for the time you give, the warmth you bring, and the care you show to everyone who walks through our doors.
From all of us to all of you – thank you for being part of the Blackburn Empire story. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. 🎁
With sincere thanks,
Everyone at Blackburn Empire Theatre