blackburn-empire-The Northern Swing Orchestra - A Tribute to Glenn Miller

The Northern Swing Orchestra – A Tribute to Glenn Miller

    MUSIC

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Sunday 11th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get In The Mood for an unforgettable evening of big band classics as The Northern Swing Orchestra return to Blackburn Empire Theatre.

This sensational 16-piece Big Band brings the timeless music of Glenn Miller back to life, celebrating one of the most successful bandleaders of the 1930s and 40s. From the first-ever gold record Chattanooga Choo Choo to iconic favourites like A String of Pearls, Moonlight Serenade and Tuxedo Junction, this is a night packed with legendary hits.

Expect a spectacular live show featuring classics including Little Brown Jug, Caribbean Clipper, In The Mood, Pennsylvania 65000, Don’t Sit Under The Apple Tree, Chattanooga Choo Choo and Kalamazoo, performed with authentic big band style and energy.

Formed in Leeds by bandleader Jonathan Wyatt, who brings nearly 40 years of experience, The Northern Swing Orchestra recreates the true sound of the big band era. Joined by two outstanding vocalists, the orchestra delivers a show full of style, swing and sophistication.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of swing music or simply love a great night out, this is a show guaranteed to have your feet tapping and leave you wanting to dance in the aisles.

Book now and experience the magic of Glenn Miller live on stage.

 

blackburn-empire-poster-The Cavern Beat Club starring The Fabs

The Cavern Beat Club starring The Fabs

    MUSIC

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Friday 12th March 2027 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Within minutes of this show starting, you'll know exactly why 'beat' groups dominated the pop music scene in the 1960s. In those days, hundreds of groups performed at 'beat' clubs throughout the U.K and, at the very heart of these was The Cavern in Liverpool – a cellar venue which quickly became known as 'The Most Famous Club in the World'.

The Fabs re-create those exciting times with a recipe of great songs, musical showmanship, excellent harmonies and audience participation. On a fantastic night to remember, you'll hear songs made famous by The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Kinks, Searchers, Merseybeats, Who, Spencer Davis Group and many more iconic names. You can look forward to experiencing a totally great, LIVE performance!

It's a unique show that recaptures the vibrant music and Scouse humour that you'd have experienced in The Cavern's "Merseymania" days. Liverpool-born Steve Quillon (whose 1960s group has a named brick in The Cavern Wall of Fame) leads The Fabs and the group is approaching its 1,000th performance.

You'll sing, scream, laugh and cheer on a night you won't forget!

 

blackburn-empire-The Lovely Bones

The Lovely Bones

    DRAMA

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From Wed 20th May 2026 to Sat 23rd May 2026


by Blackburn Drama Club – 4 shows to choose from.

Susie Salmon is just like any other young girl. She wants to be beautiful, adores her charm bracelet and has a crush on a boy from school. There’s one big difference though – Susie is dead. Now she can only observe while her family manage their grief in their different ways. Her father, Jack, is obsessed with identifying the killer. Her mother, Abigail, is desperate to create a different life for herself. Meanwhile her sister, Lindsay, is discovering the opposite sex with experiences that Susie will never know. Susie is desperate to help them and there might be a way of reaching them…

Alice Sebold’s novel The Lovely Bones is a unique coming-of-age tale that captured the hearts of readers throughout the world. Award-winning playwright Bryony Lavery has adapted it for this unforgettable play about life after loss.

“…a mesmerising spectacle.”The Guardian

“…fascinating and hugely poignant production.”BroadwayWorld

“…a joyous, heartwrenching celebration of humanity, with humour and tragedy nestled side by side.”WhatsOnStage

 

blackburn-empire-The Adult Panto: Puss & Dick!

The Adult Panto: Puss & Dick!

    COMEDY

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Saturday 13th February 2027 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Taking the UK by storm since 2004, the Market Theatre’s Adult Panto Company are back on tour and out to corrupt another classic fairy tale beyond recognition with their unique style of Adult Panto.

The fearless company of just 3 actors are here with an hilarious and extremely naughty take on the traditional tale of Dick Whittington, using a minimum of set props, costume and actors!

Get ready for an evening of slick, fast-moving, farcical fun and bawdy sexual innuendo for adults only.

Not suitable for under 16’s.

PRESS

‘Another very naughty "big" show, pulled off with ease – exactly what the audience expects!’ – A View from the Stalls (on the Adult Panto Beauty and the Big Beast!)

‘It’s fast, furious and very funny…’ – Choice Radio, Worcester (on Hansel & Gretel Go Down in the Woods)

‘Some of the sketches are worthy of The Two Ronnies with their extensive wordplay, faultlessly delivered.’ – Choice Radio, Worcester (on Peter Panties)

‘Quintessentially British…Like a Carry On film made by a Rugby Club!’ – The Stage Newspaper

 

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-poster-The Golden Oldies Rock and Roll Show

The Golden Oldies Rock and Roll Show

    MUSIC

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Monday 27th July 2026 at 2:00pm


For one night only

The Golden Oldies Rock and Roll Show is a new show brought to you by the Billy Fury Meets Elvis Presley production team.

The show takes you through the years from the 50s to the 60s with classic songs from Ricky Nelson, Roy Orbison, Billy Fury, Elvis, The Drifters, Cliff Richard, Marty Wilde and many more.

A fabulous trip down memory Lane.

 

blackburn-empire-The Dazzling Diamonds – Comedy Drag Show

The Dazzling Diamonds – Comedy Drag Show

    VARIETY

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Fri 15th January at 7:30pm & Sat 16th January 2027 at 7:30pm


Following their 2026 SOLD OUT show and fresh off the stage in London’s West EndThe Dazzling Diamonds proudly present their smash-hit comedy variety drag show

This isn’t just any show – these“ladies”deliver a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud spectacle like no other.

Featuring a cast of three internationally acclaimed performers, the show is a dazzling mix of outrageous comedysensational live vocals, and jaw-dropping dance routines.

Expect iconic hits from Tina Turner, Adele, Lady Gaga, Elton John, and many more – though not quite like you’ve seen them before!

Heading out on the road for their fourth and biggest tour to dateThe Dazzling Diamonds are bringing an all-new show packed with hilarious new routines, alongside some of the fan favourites that audiences have come to know and love.

They’ve been wowing audiences everywhere, leaving them with aching jaws, tears of laughter, and standing ovations night after night.

Don’t miss your chance to see why audiences are calling this“the funniest night on the road.”

So, grab your gangdust off the sequins, and get ready for an evening of glitz, glamour, and non-stop entertainment.

The Dazzling Diamonds are here to shine – and trust us, you won’t want to miss a moment.

 

blackburn-empire-The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

    MUSIC

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Saturday 17th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Along with the many fans who mourn the loss of Freddie Mercury, The Freddie & The Queen Experience aim to celebrate the wealth of talent that came together in Queen by recreating, with breathtaking accuracy, the style and excitement of a LIVE Queen concert, which sadly, will never be seen with Freddie Mercury again.

The Freddie & QUEEN Experience are the UK's Premier Queen & Freddie Mercury Tribute Band, who are internationally & critically acclaimed.

The band performs all over the world with sell out shows in the UK & abroad since 2018. Their dynamic tribute to Queen show has headlined many big festivals & selling out theatres across the UK throughout their career. The show is internationally acclaimed, including, most recently, in 2025 they performed a successful month-long theatre tour in Canada. The band have also performed many successful shows in the UAE & in Europe too. They deliver a passionate & energy packed show just full of all QUEEN's greatest hits!

Ian as Freddie Mercury replicates Freddie Mercury's live shows with the looks, mannerisms, vocals, charisma, passion, high energy & showmanship with fun that Freddie was so loved, adored & famous for.

The fully live band, consisting of some of the finest musicians in the UK, perform with replica outfits, instruments & perform a full recreation of QUEEN's live shows, based around QUEEN at their very best, the ’86 ‘Magic Tour’. It's simply a great show not to be missed!

 

blackburn-empire-The ELO Encounter - Face the Music

The ELO Encounter – Face the Music

    MUSIC

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Sunday 23rd August 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Roll over Beethoven, because the greatest tribute to Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra is here! In an all live show featuring soaring strings, striking vocal harmonies and playing all the much loved songs from ELO’s hit-filled library including Evil Woman, Telephone Line and Don’t Bring Me Down. The ELO Encounter promises a night filled with rock, roll and Blue Skies that would make even Mozart mambo and Bach boogie! So Hold On Tight because Rock and Roll Is King in a show that is guaranteed to have you partying All Over The World.

Not only flawlessly recreating the wonderful music of ELO, it’s a spectacular live show from start to finish. Stunning lights and special effects create an atmosphere that will have you fully immersed in the whole experience. As The ELO Encounter reel off ELO classic hit after hit, it’s guaranteed to have the hairs on the back of your neck dancing in time to the music!

As a recent reviewer remarked, “Not really a tribute, that cheapens what this band does, which is to transport you back to those days. So sensitively and authentically done, at times it felt like it was actually ELO being mirrored up there on the stage”.

That’s what The ELO Encounter tribute show is all about.

★★★★★ “An incredible evening! It isn't often we get shows of your calibre!” — Muni Theatre, Colne
★★★★★ “A brilliant night out” — Steve Scruton – BBC Radio
★★★★★ “Amazing … a fantastic band” — Tony Fisher – BBC Radio
★★★★★ “I’ve never seen such a standing ovation here!” — Braintree Arts Theatre
★★★★★ “Simply outstanding … thank you ELO Encounter” — RoadHouse Birmingham
★★★★★ “Certainly went down a storm!” — Quay Theatre
★★★★★ “Best Tribute band we have seen at the Fisher.” — Fisher Theatre

 

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.