blackburn-empire-Calendar Girls

Calendar Girls

    DRAMA

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From Wed 17th September 2025 to Sat 20th September 2025


by Blackburn Drama Club – 4 shows to choose from.

When Annie's husband John dies of leukaemia, she and best friend Chris resolve to raise money for a new settee in the local hospital waiting room.

They manage to persuade four fellow WI members to pose nude with them for an "alternative" calendar, with a little help from hospital porter and amateur photographer Lawrence.

The news of the women's charitable venture spreads like wildfire, and hordes of press soon descend on the small village of Knapeley in the Yorkshire Dales. The calendar is a success, but Chris and Annie's friendship is put to the test under the strain of their new-found fame.

Based on the true story of eleven WI members who posed nude for a calendar to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund, Calendar Girls opened at the Chichester Festival Theatre and has since become the fastest-selling play in British theatre history.

"Smash-hit show… hilarious yet touching play."
InformedEDINBURGH.co.uk

"The play induces a few tears along with the joy and laughter."
The British Theatre Guide

 

That’s So 90s!

    MUSIC

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Saturday 5th July 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

It’s time to zig-a-zig-ah your way into the weekend – the ultimate 90s night out is here!

That’s So 90s – The 90s Nostalgia Party

Fire up your Nokia, lace up those platforms, and dig out that bubblegum lip gloss — the 90s called, and you’re invited to the fiercest party of the year.

From the ultimate pop girliesthe Spice Girls, Britney — to boyband royaltyTake That and the Backstreet BoysThat’s So 90s is a full-on time machine to the wildest decade ever.

This is your chance to dress up, dance, and scream every lyric like it’s 1999.

 

blackburn-empire-The Made For Stage Jukebox

The Made For Stage Jukebox

    MUSIC

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From Fri 27th June 2025 to Sat 28th June 2025


by Made for Stage – 3 shows to choose from.

A musical theatre-inspired showcase from Made for Stage Academy!

Ever heard a song and thought, “This totally sounds like it belongs in a musical!”? Well… so have we! That’s exactly what The Made For Stage Jukebox is all about — a feel-good showcase packed with songs that aren’t technically from musicals, but 100% give off those big stagey vibes.

Our amazing Junior, Young Senior, and Senior casts are ready to bring the drama, the fun, and the goosebumps, as they perform tunes handpicked by the creative team for their theatrical flair.

Expect belters, bops, and a whole lot of sparkle — it’s going to be full of energy, emotion, and songs you’ll be humming for days. Whether you’re a musical theatre mega-fan or just love a good show, this one’s got your name on it!

Ticket sales include a £1 donation to Cancer Research.

 

blackburn-empire-Jive Talkin' perform the Bee Gees

Jive Talkin’ perform the Bee Gees

    MUSIC

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Friday 12th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Renowned as the original and very best Bee Gees tribute show, and THE ONLY Bee Gees tribute show that has actually performed with the original Bee Gees! In 1997 Gary & Darren from Jive Talkin performed LIVE on HEART FM with THE BEE GEES and received great compliments from both Maurice and Barry Gibb.

As with the original Bee Gees, Jive Talkin is very much a family affair, with brothers Gary and Darren Simmons taking the roles of Barry and Maurice Gibb, with Darren's son Jack joining the group in 2014 and taking on the role of Robin Gibb. The guys are supported musically by a four piece band with Lead Guitar, Violin, Cello and Drums, to ensure that every note in every song is just right!

Wherever the group play they receive superb plaudits; "The Soundalike quality is quite sensational" (The Stage), "Amazing similarity to the real Bee Gees" (Wakefield Express), Absolutely Brilliant (Maurice Gibb), WOW (Barry Gibb).

For a truly amazing experience and an opportunity to hear all the great Bee Gees hits; Tragedy, Night Fever, Massachusetts, Stayin Alive, jive Talkin, etc, in a 2 hour explosion of music and vocal harmony, this is a night not to be missed!

 

blackburn-empire-The History of Rock

The History of Rock

    MUSIC

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Friday 10th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Join us as we celebrate a rock line-up like no other headlined by one of the greatest bands of all time!

As always, we'll be taking audiences on a thrilling ride through the history of rock – but this time, we're turning the spotlight on Led Zeppelin, as they headline the ultimate rock concert line-up the world has ever seen.

A must see for any fan of ROCK!
Experience this iconic music brought back to life by an exceptional band consisting of some of the finest musicians and performers from around the world.

So join us and experience a rock show like no other with THE HISTORY OF ROCK!

 

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.

 

blackburn-empire-The West End Tenors

The West End Tenors

    MUSIC

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Sunday 15th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Leading men from London’s West End combine in a powerhouse
of vocal talent.

After selling out arenas across Europe, The West End
Tenors
embark on their first UK Tour, bringing their smash hit show directly
to you!

The cast of The West End Tenors have starred
in musicals such as Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia
and Miss Saigon, as well as performing at Windsor Castle for the Royal
Family, the BBC Proms and the Eurovision Song Contest.

Celebrating the greatest triumphs of Musical Theatre &
Film, their spine-tingling vocals are not to be missed, leaving audiences
breathless from start to finish.

 

blackburn-empire-Unicorn Live!

Unicorn Live!

    FAMILY

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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-The Story Behind Motown

The Story Behind Motown

    MUSIC

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Friday 12th September 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Step into the world of Motown and experience the magic behind the music that defined an era. The Story Behind Motown, founded by the legendary Mr Berry Gordy Jr., takes you on an unforgettable journey back to Detroit City, famously known as Hitsville USA.

Featuring original footage shown on the big screen and classic hits performed by the incredibly talented singers Anita and Courtney, this show is a tribute to the golden years of Motown. With stunning harmonies, iconic dress changes, and two high-energy dancers, you'll be up on your feet singing and dancing along to the timeless hits of The Four Tops, Jackie Wilson, Diana Ross and The Supremes, Sam Cooke, and many more.

This captivating production also includes soulful touches from artists like The Drifters, Marvin Gaye, and even a little Northern Soul for good measure.

Here’s what audiences are saying:

  • "We enjoyed every minute. It was brilliant! Well done to all of you!"
  • "What a great show, well done to all involved!"
  • "Absolutely amazing, and the dresses were gorgeous."
  • "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."

So, grab your dancing shoes and singing voices as we take you back through the Motown years once again. This is a show you won’t want to miss!