Blackburn Empire Theatre pays tribute to its patron Jimmy Cricket
Everyone at Blackburn Empire Theatre is deeply saddened by the death of our much-loved patron and dear friend, Jimmy Cricket.
Read all about itNews
The latest from Blackburn Empire
Catch up with current news, updates and stories from Blackburn Empire Theatre, with a small look back at moments from the theatre's past below.
Current news
News, announcements and updates from the theatre.
First Look: The Cast of Blackburn’s Aladdin 2026 Is Here
The cast for Aladdin – Blackburn Christmas Pantomime 2026 has landed - and it’s packed with Blackburn favourites, returning faces, and a few you’ll definitely recognise.
Read all about it
Sweet Treats Just Got Sweeter – Sweet Bros Arrive at the Empire!
Say hello to Sweet Bros – the brilliant sweets brand created by Blackburn brothers Logan (13) and Barkley (9) – now officially available at the Empire!...
Read all about itPunk Icon John Lydon Brings Spoken Word Tour to Blackburn
Legendary punk icon John Lydon is bringing his acclaimed solo spoken word tour back for 2027, following overwhelming demand from fans.
Read all about it
Happy Christmas from Blackburn Empire Theatre
A Christmas message from Blackburn Empire Theatre, thanking our audiences, performers, community groups, staff and award-winning volunteers - plus a record-breaking panto season
Read all about it
The Perfect Gift This Christmas – Give the Magic of Live Entertainment!
Stuck for gift ideas? Skip the socks, ditch the perfume and give something truly unforgettable this Christmas — a night out at the Blackburn Empire Theatre!
Read all about it
Blesma veterans enjoy a magical Snow White panto visit at Blackburn Empire
Blackburn Empire Theatre was delighted to welcome members of Blesma, The Limbless Veterans back to the theatre this week for their slice of Snow White panto...
Read all about it
Snow White opens – and it is already a record-breaking year at Blackburn Empire
Snow White has officially arrived at Blackburn Empire Theatre… and the magic has already made history.
Read all about it
“Heart and Soul of Blackburn’s Cultural Scene” – Blackburn Empire Volunteers Crowned Group of the Year
The volunteers of Blackburn Empire Theatre have officially been named Group of the Year at the 2025 Community Volunteer Awards
Read all about itFrom the archives
A small selection of stories from Blackburn Empire Theatre's past.
“The Pure Hell of St. Trinian’s” as a battle begins between TV & Cinema
From the 1940s through the 1950s, the Empire Theatre saw some remarkable changes!
Read all about it
From the archives – Blackburn Empire, the River & the Corporation!
Delving into the archives, we uncover a significant event in the history of the Blackburn Empire that almost spelled its demise in 1928.
Read all about it