blackburn-empire-Rent - The Musical

Rent – The Musical

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From Fri 14th March 2025 to Sun 16th March 2025


by Create Theatre Academy – 4 shows to choose from.

This iconic Rock Musical celebrates human authenticity, love and pride! Taking a raw look at life back in the late 1980’s – New York City – where a group of artists and musicians come together and learn how to live a life true to who they really are, exploring themes of friendship, poverty, homosexuality, love and loss.

With an award winning rock score by Jonathan Larson, Rent tells the story of Mark, Roger, Mimi, Tom, Angel, Maureen, Joanne, and Collins as they navigate the hardships of life while embracing their individuality and living life on their own terms.

Rent the Musical is a beacon of hope, love, and acceptance, shining a bright light on the vibrant and resilient LGBTQ+ community.

Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this exhilarating Musical performed by an incredible cast of young talent, you will be moved from laughter to tears. Book your tickets now!

 

blackburn-empire-VIVA LA VIDA - The Greatest Hits Of Coldplay

VIVA LA VIDA – The Greatest Hits Of Coldplay

    MUSIC

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Saturday 18th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

“Absolute Paradise for Coldplay Fans”

The closest thing you will see to Coldplay anywhere on the planet!

VIVA LA VIDA – The Greatest Hits of Coldplay is a truly authentic tribute celebration of the British hitmakers' iconic 25-year career.

With a sensational live band and a truly charismatic frontman, this show features the closest lookalike to Chris Martin you’ve ever seen. Audiences are amazed by his striking likeness, combined with the same incredible and haunting vocal range and power.

This inclusive tribute production captivates and recreates the euphoric vibrancy and colourful energy of a live Coldplay concert, delivering a real ‘festival headline performance’ feel.

Featuring all of the biggest hits, including:Yellow, Viva La Vida, Clocks, Paradise, Fix You, and the latest number one single feelslikeimfallinginlove and We Pray from Moon Music.

Become the honorary ‘fifth’ member of the band as we invite you to sing, dance, laugh, and love with VIVA LA VIDA – The Greatest Hits of Coldplay.

 

blackburn-empire-Unicorn Live!

Unicorn Live!

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Thu 19th February at 1:00pm & Thu 19th February 2026 at 4:00pm


by Darling Productions – 2 shows to choose from.

After the sell out success of Princess Live! Darling Productions UK are proud to announce a brand new show for 2026… Unicorn Live!

Harmony, Melody and Starlight are the best of unicorn friends… Join them as they use their magical unicorn powers to save the show and conjure up the magical fourth band member. Watch in amazement as they use the power of song and dance to create the band, Unicorn Live!

Featuring your favourite pop and musical theatre songs, dazzling costumes, and a real unicorn called Sparkle. This show is like no other and will be sure to entertain children of all ages.

After every performance there is a free photo opportunity with Harmony, Melody and Starlight.

Let’s sing, dance and make kindness thrive – book your tickets now for Unicorn Live!

 

blackburn-empire-Whole Lotta Shakin' - The Shakin' Stevens Story

Whole Lotta Shakin’ – The Shakin’ Stevens Story

    MUSIC

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Saturday 12th April 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Fully endorsed by members of Shaky's own family, the Award Winning tribute to the UK's biggest selling singles artist of the 1980's – WHOLE LOTTA SHAKIN'- THE SHAKIN' STEVENS STORY is a nostalgic celebration, jam packed with feel-good Rock 'n' Roll!

Performing as Shakin' Stevens, West End star Rebel Dean will guide you through a full audio-visual spectacular with his live band, including rare footage and images which tell the story of the rockin' Welsh boy and his rise to chart-topping superstardom.

The show features unforgettable hits including 'Green Door', 'Oh Julie', 'You Drive Me Crazy' and 'This Ole House'….as well as the classic songs which were covered by Shaky from artists such as Eddie Cochran, Chuck Berry, Ritchie Valens and Elvis Presley.

Put your bopping shoes on, dust off the double denim, slick back your hair and get ready to sing-along, dance-along and join in with the biggest and best 'Shaky' party to hit UK theatres….ever!

www.wholelottashakin.co.uk

 

blackburn-empire-Wonders of Our Universe

Wonders of Our Universe

    FAMILY

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Wednesday 9th April 2025 at 2:00pm


For one night only

Immerse yourself in an evening of exploration, each second meticulously crafted to produce a visually stunning and emotionally charged journey through the cosmos, delivered in a distinctive storytelling style, allowing imaginations to roam free and inspiring minds, both young and old alike. Stars, planets, galaxies, black holes, the search for life beyond Earth…we’ll explore them all, as well as taking a poignant look at ‘The Power of Smallness’ and something truly profound and inspirational for our younger audience members, ‘Destiny’.

A wonderful show of inspiring family entertainment for all ages with a stunning soundtrack and live presenter.

Presented by: Ian Hall FRAS – Astrophysicist

 

blackburn-empire-Women in Rock

Women in Rock

    MUSIC

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Friday 28th March 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The critically acclaimed Women in Rock UK tour is coming
to Blackburn Empire for one night only, and this is a rock concert unlike any
other.

Celebrating the sensationally strong female leaders of
rock, including Blondie, Suzi Q, Janis Joplin, Heart, Joan Jett, Pink, Kiki
Dee, Bonnie Tyler, Cher and so many more!

With a cast of world-class musicians and vocalists that
deliver a blistering 2-hour performance, you’ll be singing, dancing and rocking
out from the off with hit after hit.

A rock show unlike any other with electric costume
changes, soaring vocals, impressive harmonies and audience interaction, you
will not be disappointed. Join us for iconic songs such as Piece Of My Heart,
Black Velvet, You Oughta Know & Left Outside Alone as we show you just what
these women are made of. You’ll be left in awe of the vocal ability of the
Women in Rock cast and feeling like you can take on the world!

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Ultimate 70s Show

Ultimate 70s Show

    MUSIC

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Friday 4th April 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Travel back in time and relive the sights and sounds of the seventies. The Ultimate 70’s show rolls back the years and takes you on a roller coaster ride with a show encompassing all the biggest glam hits form that era.

It was the decade that time forgot – so dust off your tank tops, lace up your platform boots , spray on the Old Spice, it’s time to rock!! A six piece line up faithfully recreate huge anthems by Slade, T-Rex, Bowie, The Sweet, Mud, Alice Cooper to name a few.

The audience are encouraged to dress with the times and join in the fun in this high octane show.

Leave your inhibitions at the door for a night of pure seventies glam rock!!

Fancy dress not necessary but strongly encouraged!!

 

blackburn-empire-Tony Christie

Tony Christie

    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-Total REX

Total REX

    MUSIC

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Saturday 3rd October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Total REX is a sensational show capturing the rock sound of Marc Bolan and T. Rex – a must-see for all Bolan, Glam Rock, and 70s music fans alike.

The show features all of T. Rex’s biggest hits from the 1970s, along with fan-favourite album tracks and much, much more!

Formed in 2021, the band – all lifelong T. Rex fans – have quickly established themselves as one of the UK’s favourite and leading T. Rex tribute acts. They are officially endorsed by The Official Marc Bolan Fan Club (OMBFC).

Bolan still has a large and loyal fan base worldwide, and his status as one of Britain’s leading music stars has recently been recognised with T. Rex’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

 

The Magic of Manilow

    MUSIC

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Friday 6th June 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get ready for a spectacular tribute to the legendary Barry Manilow in ‘THE MAGIC OF MANILOW’ – a dazzling celebration of timeless hits, stunning choreography, and amazing effects!

Relive the magic of classics like Mandy, Could It Be Magic, Can’t Smile Without You, and, of course, the iconic Copacabana (At the Copa).

Our incredible live tribute show brings Manilow’s unforgettable melodies to life, backed by a team of sensational dancers who capture the energy and glamour of his legendary performances.

This show is more than just a concert – it’s a journey through the golden era of Manilow’s music, where every note is filled with nostalgia, passion, and pure showbiz sparkle.

With stunning visuals, electrifying stage effects, and a setlist of fan-favourite songs, THE MAGIC OF MANILOW will have you singing along and dancing in your seat!

Whether you're a lifelong "Fanilow" or discovering his music for the first time, this is a must-see tribute that promises a night of joy, memories, and musical magic.

The Magic of Manilow – where music and memories come alive!