blackburn-empire-Wonders of Our Universe - The Next Chapter

Wonders of Our Universe – The Next Chapter

    FAMILY

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Wednesday 28th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Presented by The Average Scientist

Step into a world of wonder with Wonders of Our Universe – The Next Chapter, an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos that takes you deeper into the mysteries of space and time. This brand-new instalment of the acclaimed show stands proudly on its own, welcoming both returning fans and first-time explorers alike.

Join Astrophysicist Ian Hall FRAS and Exoplanet Research Scientist Charlotte Alexandra FRAS for an unforgettable evening of breathtaking visuals, captivating storytelling, live demonstrations, and atmospheric live music—all presented on a stunning HD screen.

Together, they’ll uncover more of the universe’s secrets, from the beauty of the stars to the fundamental nature of reality itself.

Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or simply curious about the cosmos, The Next Chapter promises to ignite your imagination and leave you gazing at the stars with renewed wonder. An unmissable experience for dreamers of all ages.

 

blackburn-empire-We Will Rock You: The Musical by Queen & Ben Elton

We Will Rock You: The Musical by Queen & Ben Elton

    MUSIC

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From Thu 23rd July 2026 to Sun 26th July 2026


by Made for Stage – 5 shows to choose from.

WE WILL ROCK YOU – THE MUSICAL by QUEEN & Ben Elton

Presented by Made For Stage UK Ltd & ALTD Productions

Get ready to rock as we bring you the iconic, high-energy musical We Will Rock You to the stage!

Set in a dystopian future where live music is banned, instruments are forbidden, and individuality is crushed, We Will Rock You follows a group of rebel Bohemians fighting to bring back freedom of expression — and rock ‘n’ roll.

At the heart of the story is Galileo, a dreamer who hears strange words in his head. Alongside the fierce and fearless Scaramouche, they join the rebellion to challenge the tyrannical Globalsoft Corporation, led by the Killer Queen. Their mission? To rediscover the lost power of rock and unleash the spirit of Queen once more.

Featuring over 20 of Queen’s greatest hits — including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Somebody to Love,” “Don’t Stop Me Now,” “Under Pressure,” and of course, “We Will Rock You” — this electric jukebox musical is a celebration of music, rebellion, and staying true to who you are.

With spectacular vocals, epic rock anthems, and plenty of laughs along the way, this is a night out that will have you clapping, stomping, and singing along from start to finish.

We Will Rock You is presented through special arrangement with and all
authorised performance materials are supplied by Theatrical Rights
Worldwide (TRW) www.theatricalrights.co.uk

Music and Lyrics by QUEEN

Story and Script by BEN ELTON

Original Vocal Score by MIKE DIXON, BRIAN MAY and ROGER
TAYLOR

Original Orchestrations by STEVE SIDWELL

Music and Lyrics by QUEEN and Script by BEN ELTON
Original

Vocal Score by MIKE DIXON, BRIAN
MAY, & ROGER TAYLOR

Original Orchestrations by STEVE SIDWELL

 

blackburn-empire-The Poppy Holiday Show

The Poppy Holiday Show

    MUSIC

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Monday 2nd February 2026 at 2:00pm


For one night only

Brought to You by Poppy & Friends get ready for a feel-good, toe-tapping afternoon as Poppy & Friends deliver timeless, unforgettable songs direct to your seat!

From classic hits like “Shout,” “Don’t Call Me Baby,” “Runaround Sue,” “Tell Me Ma,” and “Puppet on a String “to many more crowd-pleasing favourites, this show is bursting with nostalgia and energy.

Expect sing-alongs, fun, laughter, and surprises in an action-packed live music and theatre experience that's perfect for all ages.

This performance is especially close to Poppy’s heart and her friends’ too so if you can come along and join us, please do! Your support means the world.

 

blackburn-empire-The Pirates of Buccaneer Bay

The Pirates of Buccaneer Bay

    FAMILY

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Sunday 26th October 2025 at 1:00pm


by Tom Rolfe Productions for one night only

All aboard for a swashbuckling adventure like no other!

From the award-winning team behind Sleeping Beauty and The Wizard of Oz comes a brand-new family spectacularThe Pirates of Buccaneer Bay! Packed with laughs, thrills, and jaw-dropping surprises, this is the high-seas panto experience you won't want to miss.

Join the lovable Buckle the Cabin Boy as he sets sail on a wild quest packed with pirates, peril and plenty of pirate booty! Expect chaos and comedy galore from the side-splittingly funny Stee Leahy as the outrageous Tilly Knickerbocker, plus a full supporting cast of West End-quality performers.

This dazzling production features stunning illusions, edge-of-your-seat danger, world-class circus acts from across the globe, and the return of the world-famous U.V. Blacklight Puppets – a visual feast that will leave audiences of all ages gasping in amazement.

Whether you're 4 or 104, this is a family adventure brimming with magic, music and mayhem. So hoist the anchor and set a course for Buccaneer Bay – it’s the most fun you can have without walking the plank!

Book now – treasure awaits!

 

blackburn-empire-The Ultimate Pop Show

The Ultimate Pop Show

    MUSIC

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Sunday 24th May 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Delivering the most exhilarating dance routines, latest trends and hits from the biggest chart-topping artists including; Taylor Swift, Girls Aloud, Ariana Grande, Harry Styles, Miley Cyrus, Beyonce, Justin Bieber, Little Mix and many more.

Round up your family and friends and get ready to sparkle and shine with this all-new family friendly concert experience!

Dress to impress, and join us for the ultimate first concert experience for kids, teens and families to enjoy together.

Meet & Greet the cast stars for an after-show photoshoot to make your moments last forever!

 

blackburn-empire-The Rod Stewart Songbook

The Rod Stewart Songbook

    MUSIC

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Friday 25th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The Rod Stewart Songbook are delighted to be returning to Blackburn Empire Theatre. 

Their spectacular theatre production is the ultimate homage to Sir Rod Stewart, featuring the sensational Pete McCall. 

⭐️ Rod Stewart’s sister, Mary Cady, said to Pete “you were excellent”.

⭐️ The Hull Daily Mail wrote, “Pete McCall is the next best thing to seeing Rod himself”. 

Along with his fantastic Live Band, you will be taken on a musical journey spanning 50 years, when one of rock music’s greatest icons sold over 250 million records worldwide. 

These unforgettable hits include Sailing, Maggie May, Da Ya Think I’m Sexy, Some Guys Have All The Luck, Baby Jane, Rhythm Of My Heart, You Wear It Well, Hot Legs and many many more.

 

blackburn-empire-Tony Christie

Tony Christie – The Great Farewell

    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.

 

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.