blackburn-empire-The Story Behind Motown

The Story Behind Motown

    MUSIC

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Sunday 7th February 2027 at 2:30pm


For one night only

Back by popular demand and standing ovations!

Welcome once again to a world of Motown magic.

Join us on a journey through the golden years of Motown, blended with the smooth sounds of soul. “The Story Behind Motown” celebrates the legendary legacy founded by Mr. Berry Gordy Jr., taking you right back to where it all began – Detroit City, the home of Hitsville U.S.A.

Enjoy original footage on the big screen alongside timeless classics performed live by our two outstanding vocalists, Anita and Courtney, whose stunning harmonies bring the music to life.

Expect spectacular costume changes throughout, plus The Supreme Dancers, who will have the crowd on their feet, singing and dancing along to unforgettable hits from:

The Temptations – Jackie Wilson – Diana Ross & The Supremes – Sam Cooke – Smokey Robinson – The Drifters – Marvin Gaye

…and so many more!

So grab your dancing shoes and warm up those singing voices as we take you on another trip through the Motown years!

What audiences said at our last visit to the Blackburn Empire:

⭐ “We enjoyed every minute. It was brilliant — well done to all of you!”

⭐ “It was a great show, well done to everyone involved!”

⭐ “Absolutely amazing — wow, the dresses were gorgeous!”

⭐ “What a show! Beautiful singers and dancers. Can’t wait for next time.”

⭐ “Brilliant show! Now I know more about Motown. Didn’t want it to end.”

⭐ “Seen it twice now and love it! Couldn’t stop dancing!”

…and many more!

 

blackburn-empire-The Opera Boys – The Farewell Tour starring Paul Potts

The Opera Boys – The Farewell Tour starring Paul Potts

    MUSIC

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Wednesday 7th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The powerhouse classical-crossover sensation The Opera Boys are thrilled to announce their final tour, featuring the world-renowned tenor and very first winner of Britain’s Got Talent, Paul Potts.

Following years of sold-out performances across the globe, The Opera Boys join forces with the man who captured the world’s heart with his legendary audition of “Nessun Dorma”. This collaboration promises an evening of soaring notes, impeccable harmonies, and the perfect blend of opera, musical theatre, and modern pop classics.

Paul Potts became a household name in 2007, winning the inaugural season of Britain’s Got Talent. Since then, he has released multi-platinum albums, performed over 1,500 shows in 45 countries, and inspired the Hollywood biopic One Chance.

The Opera Boys are a leading classical-crossover group featuring leading men from London’s West End and Broadway. They have performed for royalty, appeared on national television, and performed to sold-out theatres and concert halls worldwide, delivering immaculate four-part harmonies and solo performances in their inimitable style.

You do not want to miss this final tour, as it really is time to say goodbye!

 

blackburn-empire-The Secret

The Secret

    VARIETY

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Saturday 13th June 2026 at 2:30pm


by Amethyst in association with Top Secret Productions and Svengali Entertainment for one night only

Behind every illusion lies a secret, a secret guarded for centuries.

Step into a world of mystery, magic and wonder as master magician and member of the world famous Magic Circle Danny Hunt, invites you on an extraordinary journey where the impossible becomes reality.

Prepare to be amazed by breathtaking displays of sleight of hand, mind-bending magic and astonishing feats of mentalism that will leave you questioning the very limits of your imagination.

The magic doesn’t stop there – members of the audience will have the chance to participate from their seats with interactive trick, becoming an integral part of the enchantment unfolding before their very eyes.

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable magical experience that will leave you spellbound.

 

blackburn-empire-The Sounds of Philadelphia and Motown Show - Starring Roy G. Hemmings

The Sounds of Philadelphia and Motown Show – Starring Roy G. Hemmings

    MUSIC

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Friday 23rd October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Former Drifters member Roy G Hemmings brings together the sound of three of America’s iconic labels: The Sound of Philadelphia (TSOP), Stax Atlantic and Motown, in one live action-packed show.

Featuring hits by: The
Three Degrees, Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, Stevie Wonder, Billy Paul, The
Four Tops, Temptations, Marvin Gaye, O’Jays, Otis Redding
plus songs by The Drifters.

Starring the fabulous Roy G. Hemmings

Enjoy hit after hit including: Me & Mrs Jones,
Superstition, Ain’t too Proud to Beg, What Becomes of the Broken Hearted, How
Sweet it is to be Loved by You, Young Hearts Run Free, I’m Coming Out, Love
Train, You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine, Givin’ Up Givin’ In, Get
Ready, When Will I See You Again, Hold Back the Night, Dock of the Bay, My Girl
and lots more.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“An excellent show; thoroughly recommended”

What’s Good to Do

 “The carefree energy and laid-back atmosphere encourages audience
participation that feeds into the feel-good concert”

Frankly My Dear UK

www.RoyGHemmings.com

 

blackburn-empire-poster-The Kilkennys

The Kilkennys

    MUSIC

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Wednesday 2nd September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Following a landmark year celebrating 25 years together, The Kilkennys return to the road in 2026 with a brand-new international tour.

Fresh from the release of their acclaimed 25 Year Celebration album, a double release featuring 25 tracks that blend new recordings with fan favourites, the band are bringing their distinctive energy and sound to audiences across Europe and beyond once again.

Renowned for their lively shows and modern take on traditional Irish folk music, The Kilkennys continue to build on their reputation as one of Ireland’s most exciting touring bands. Their 2026 tour showcases the group’s signature harmonies, musicianship, and storytelling, alongside new material developed since the release of their anniversary album.

Featuring Davey Cashin, Tommy Mackey, Mick Martin, and Davey Long, The Kilkennys deliver a performance that celebrates Ireland’s musical spirit, from classic ballads to contemporary folk anthems.

After more than 25 years together, The Kilkennys’ passion for live performance remains as strong as ever, continuing to unite fans through the joy and power of Irish song.

 

blackburn-empire-The UK Rock Show

The UK Rock Show

    MUSIC

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Saturday 26th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Harder Rock Productions is proud to bring you ‘The UK Rock Show’!

Get ready to be transported back to the 80s heyday of classic rock, combining the feel of a rock festival with the atmosphere of a top-end rock arena tour.

Expect fireworks, flames, amazing lighting, and exacting attention to detail as this amazing 5-piece band recreate hits from rock gods such as Journey, Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Kiss, AC/DC, Van Halen, and many more!

If you are a fan of live classic rock, this is the show for you!

www.theukrockshow.co.uk

 

blackburn-empire-The Magic of Science "High Voltage"

The Magic of Science “High Voltage”

    FAMILY

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Monday 25th May 2026 at 2:00pm


For one night only

Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science. Hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop, action-packed, interactive magical science show with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination.

Join Top Secret as they go on a High Voltage Adventure!!!

Top Secret is a fast-moving, colourful magical science show suitable for the whole family, filled with mystery, suspense, and lots and lots of mess!

 

blackburn-empire-The Searchers Experience Show - Starring Spencer James

The Searchers Experience Show – Starring Spencer James

    MUSIC

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Wednesday 14th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Spencer James has been lead vocalist and guitarist with Sixties legends The Searchers for 37 years, prior to their retirement in 2019.

Touring with his own band, The Spencer James Band, during the interim, Spencer and the rest of The Searchers are uniting for a reunion tour.

They have performed in just about every prestigious venue in the world, including Wembley Stadium (with Sir Cliff Richard), National Indoor Arena (Millennium New Year with Sir Cliff), London Palladium, Royal Albert Hall, and Madison Square Garden, including tours of Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, USA, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and Las Vegas. He has remained hugely popular throughout this time.

Spencer James was also a member of the band called The First Class, which gave Spencer his first big hit with a song called “Beach Baby” in 1974. They appeared on many TV shows, including Top of the Pops, Lift Off with Aysha, and many European television shows.

Continuing with the legacy of The Searchers, Spencer now presents The Searchers Experience with his backing band – a show that recreates the magic from a band which successfully spanned five decades.

The show offers all the hits and more of The Searchers’ live show, presented with all the personality for which Spencer is known and loved.