Shows Archive - Page 4 of 11 - Blackburn Empire

Strange, But True Crime

By 13th March 2025

VARIETY

Wednesday 11th March 2026 at 7:30pm

For one night only

Join us for a stranger than fiction night of true crime with ex-forensics lecturer Jennifer Rees who explores the world's most shocking and unbelievable cases. Jennifer's previous theatre tour, The Psychology of Serial Killers, was a huge hit with audiences, selling out across the UK and Ireland to rave reviews.

In this new show, Jennifer explores stories such as the serial killer who gained work in law enforcement whilst on the run – and ended up hunting himself; the female, balloon-carrying killer clown; serial killers on game shows – how their appearances led to their identification, and many more stories.

A fascinating look at the strangest, but true crime stories, perfect for fans of true crime documentaries and podcasts.

"Riveting content, and extremely well delivered. 10/10" – Audience Review

Thank ABBA for the Music

By 13th March 2025

MUSIC

Thank ABBA for the Music

Sat 7th February at 2:30pm & Sat 7th February 2026 at 7:30pm

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Grab your platforms and flares for a journey back in time to when ABBA dominated the charts and ruled the airwaves!

Thank ABBA For The Music is a two-hour theatre ABBA-fest that captures all of the magic and excitement of one of pop history's most successful and entertaining live bands. Featuring all of ABBA's greatest hits, including Dancing Queen, Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Take A Chance On Me, Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! Knowing Me Knowing You, SOS, Fernando, Super Trouper and many more!

With stunning costumes, a 7-piece live band, interactive video projection, some tongue-in-cheek Swedish humour, and of course ABBA’s spectacular trademark harmonies – this is the ultimate feel-good party show!

ABBA and 70’s fancy dress optional…but encouraged!

★★★★★ ‘FABBATASTIC NIGHT OUT! – Times & Star
★★★★★ ‘THE BIGGEST PARTY WITH THE UK’S BEST ABBA TRIBUTE’ – The Sands Centre, Carlisle
★★★★★ ‘YOU WERE AMAZING!’ – The Sage Gateshead

Disclaimer: Thank Abba For The Music is a tribute show and is not affiliated or endorsed by the original artist or management company. www.thankabbaforthemusic.co.uk

The 39 Steps

By 13th March 2025

DRAMA

The 39 Steps

From Wed 21st May 2025 to Sat 24th May 2025

by Blackburn Drama Club – 4 shows to choose from.

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Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python, and you have The 39 Steps—a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre!

This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, a multitude of zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of six), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance!

In The 39 Steps, a man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she’s a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organisation called “The 39 Steps” is hot on the man’s trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale!

A riotous blend of virtuoso performances and wildly inventive stagecraft, The 39 Steps amounts to an unforgettable evening of pure pleasure!

“Ingenious! A dizzy delight!” – Daily News“
Theatre at its finest… Absurdly enjoyable! This gleefully theatrical riff on Hitchcock's film is fast and frothy, performed by a cast of four that seems like a cast of thousands.” – The New York Times

The Class of 55

By 13th March 2025

MUSIC

The Class of 55

Friday 16th January 2026 at 7:30pm

For one night only

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Get ready to rock and roll as the Class of '55 reunites for an unforgettable night celebrating the legendary sounds of Buddy Holly, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis!

This spectacular production promises to transport you back in time with all the electrifying energy of a live band that will have you dancing in your seat. The Class of '55 comes alive with vibrant visuals that enhance every note and every beat.

Experience the raw power of Johnny Cash, the infectious melodies of Buddy Holly, and the wild, piano-pounding antics of Jerry Lee Lewis—all performed by a talented ensemble that captures the spirit of these rock and roll icons.

Feel the nostalgia in the air as classic hits echo through the venue, accompanied by stunning lighting effects that create an immersive atmosphere. This is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of the music that defined a generation.

Join us for a night filled with laughter, memories, and timeless tunes that continue to inspire and entertain.

Don’t miss your chance to relive the magic of rock and roll history—'It’s a Rock 'n' Roll Rewind'!

Songs From The Rat Pack – The Northern Swing Orchestra

By 13th March 2025

MUSIC

Songs From The Rat Pack – The Northern Swing Orchestra

Sunday 28th September 2025 at 7:30pm

For one night only

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Get Ready for an unforgettable
night with The Sixteen Piece Northern Swing Orchestra at The Blackburn Empire
Theatre on Sunday
28^th September 2025!

It’s all systems go for
Yorkshire’s premier Big Band, The Sixteen Piece Northern Swing Orchestra, as
they gear up for an electrifying performance.

Prepare yourself for an
evening packed with timeless music, irresistible rhythms, and entertainment
guaranteed to have you tapping your feet and singing along. With their
sensational Rat Pack and Big Band Show, this will be an event to
remember!

Featuring the legendary hits
of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., alongside the
swingin' classics of Count Basie, the night will transport you back to
the golden age of music. Expect to hear iconic songs like “The Lady Is a
Tramp”, “Me and My Shadow”, and “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”,
along with swinging instrumental numbers like “Flight of the Foo Birds”, “Splanky”
and “Sweet Georgia Brown”.

With three incredible
vocalists delivering smooth, powerful performances, you’ll be swept away by
the charm, energy, and unforgettable tunes that defined the Rat Pack era.

Don’t miss this chance to
experience a night of world-class music and nostalgia! Join us for an evening
that promises to be a highlight of the year.

www.northernswingorchestra.co.uk

The Dazzling Diamonds – Comedy Drag Show

By 13th March 2025

VARIETY

The Dazzling Diamonds – Comedy Drag Show

Saturday 10th January 2026 at 7:30pm

For one night only

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Get ready to be dazzled by The Dazzling Diamonds!

The Dazzling Diamonds make a triumphant return with a brand new comedy variety drag show. From jaw dropping dance numbers to hilarious lip-sync performances and not forgetting the sensational live vocals, the cast are pulling out all the stops to make this show as unforgettable as the last!

But don't worry, we haven't forgotten about your fan favourites! You can still expect to see the iconic performances that have made The Dazzling Diamonds a hit.

So gather your friends, put on your most fabulous outfit, and join us for a night of glitz, glamour, and pure entertainment. The Dazzling Diamonds are ready to shine bright and make your night one to remember!

Shrek The Musical JR.

By 13th March 2025

Shrek The Musical JR.

From Mon 31st March 2025 to Wed 2nd April 2025

by Act One Beginners – 3 shows to choose from.

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Following on from their SOLD OUT production run of Disney's Frozen JR. in July 2024, Lancashire based Performing Arts School, Act One Beginners, are back for three more nights in 2025 with their latest production of DreamWorks Shrek The Musical JR.

Shrek The Musical JR. follows an ogre named Shrek who has learned the hard way that “people hate the things they cannot understand.” For many years he has protected himself from the hurtful actions of those who are scared of him by living as a recluse in a cosy cesspit. One day, his peaceful swamp is disturbed by new tenants: fairy-tale misfits — including Pinocchio, the Ugly Duckling, the Wicked Witch, Peter Pan, the Three Pigs and the Big Bad Wolf — have been banished there by the villainous Lord Farquaad.

In order to gain back his land, Shrek makes a deal with Farquaad to rescue the feisty princess Fiona from a tower guarded by a fierce dragon. Setting off with his faithful companion, Donkey, Shrek begins the journey of a lifetime filled with adventure, romance, and hilarity.

With music by Jeanine Tesori, book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, Shrek The Musical is based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film and the book Shrek by William Steig. The original Broadway production, starring Brian d'Arcy James as Shrek and Sutton Foster as Fiona, ran for twelve months and received a total of twelve Drama Desk Awards and eight Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical.

Running time is approximately 90 minutes, including an interval.

Further details about Act One Beginners can be found on their website actonebeginners.uk or via the usual social media links.
Shrek Jr. Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the Book by William Steig. Book and Lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire.
Music by Jeanine Tesori. Originally produced on Broadway by DreamWorks Theatricals and Neal Street Productions.
Original Production Directed by Jason Moore and Rob Ashford. “I’m a Believer” by Neil Diamond. This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.
All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MT I www.mtishows.co.uk

Snow White – Christmas Pantomime 2025

By 13th March 2025

FAMILY

Snow White – Christmas Pantomime 2025

From Sat 22nd November 2025 to Sun 4th January 2026

by Tom Rolfe Productions – 35 shows to choose from.

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The Fairest Pantomime of Them All

Mirror Mirror On The Wall…What’s The Fairest Pantomime of Them all?

It’s SNOW WHITE, of course, and it’s heading to The Blackburn Empire at Christmas 2025… Oh yes it is!

Tom Rolfe Productions are thrilled to be back with a brand new production bursting with dazzling costumes, hilarious comedy, sensational singing, beautiful scenery, and the coolest Magnificent Seven ever!

Will the wicked Queen Horibella manage to win the hand of Prince Charming? Will Snow White find the secret cottage? Will everyone live happily ever after? Find out by booking your tickets today!

Join us for Christmas 2025 and enjoy the fairest pantomime of them all! It’ll be Wicked!

Sleeping Beauty

By 13th March 2025

FAMILY

Sleeping Beauty

Sun 13th April at 1:00pm & Sun 13th April 2025 at 5:00pm

by Tom Rolfe Productions – 2 shows to choose from.

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We are thrilled to welcome back the legendary Linda Lusardi and the sensational Lucy Kane to Blackburn Empire Theatre in the spellbinding Easter Pantomime, Sleeping Beauty! This magical production by Tom Rolfe Productions promises laughter, wonder, and an unforgettable family experience.

With Linda Lusardi as the enchanting Fairy, Lucy Kane as the beautiful Sleeping Beauty, the hilarious Tom Rolfe as Tommy, and the delightfully wicked Stee Leahy as Carabosse, this all-star cast is ready to dazzle and entertain.

Follow the tale of Princess Beauty, whose life takes an unexpected turn when the evil Carabosse casts a wicked spell on her 21st birthday. But with the Fairy’s magic, Tommy’s antics, and a host of delightful characters, can true love’s kiss save the day?

Packed with dazzling costumes, laugh-out-loud comedy, and spectacular songs, Sleeping Beauty is the perfect way to make magical memories with your family this Easter.

SHE – The Show

By 13th March 2025

MUSIC

SHE – The Show

Saturday 6th September 2025 at 7:30pm

For one night only

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Get ready to embark on a journey through the golden era of pop rock with SHE, an electrifying music show that celebrates the iconic female singers who blazed a trail through the 70s and 80s.

From the sultry swagger of Stevie Nicks to the infectious rhythms of Blondie to the rebellious spirit of Pat Benatar, SHE brings to life the anthems that empowered a generation and inspired a revolution.

With electrifying guitar solos and pulsating bass lines, experience the magic of a show that is sure to leave you singing along, dancing in the aisles, and feeling empowered to embrace your inner rockstar.

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