blackburn-empire-poster-The Stadium Rock Experience

The Stadium Rock Experience

    MUSIC

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Friday 30th January 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The Stadium Rock Experience delivers all the excitement of arena rock with classic anthems from the biggest acts!

Described as an audio and visual sensation, the Trigger band are thrilled to return to The Empire Theatre with our esteemed Stadium Rock Experience show. This promises to be an entertaining and uplifting evening, delivering the excitement and spectacle associated with arena rock, with the highest standard of musicianship, and the most popular hit songs from the biggest mainstream rock acts.

The Stadium Rock Experience show includes a variety of staging, visuals, effects and lighting, to recreate the monumental majesty of the arena rock genre. Our set list includes classic anthems from the likes of Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams, Queen, Status Quo, Kiss, Journey, ABBA, Guns N Roses, Cher, Whitesnake, AC/DC, and Tina Turner amongst many others, which are all energetically performed to keep everyone engaged, excited and participating from the very first song right through to the finale.

When you absolutely, positively need thrilling entertainment, look no further than Trigger: The Stadium Rock Experience!

 

blackburn-empire-SPAMALOT

SPAMALOT

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From Mon 11th May 2026 to Sat 16th May 2026


by Blackburn Musical Theatre Company – 7 shows to choose from.

It’s just a flesh wound! The fantastic Blackburn Musical Theatre Company returns in 2026 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the side-splittingly hilarious MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT, lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python And The Holy Grail.

Retelling the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, Spamalot features killer rabbits, French people, knights that say ‘Ni’, cows, a bevy of beautiful show girls, and the unforgettable anthem, Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life.

Bursting with unforgettable songs, absurd humour, and zany characters, this musical is a celebration of all things Monty Python, which will leave audiences in stitches from start to finish.

The original 2005 Broadway production won three Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, and its success continued on the West End the following year, with BMTC celebrating 20 years since its London premiere with their latest venture.

If you loved BMTC’s spectacular record-breaking production of Beauty And The Beast in 2025, or the foot-stompingly joyous 2024 hit production Sunshine On Leith, don’t miss out on the hilarious triple Tony Award-winning musical Spamalot!

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Theatrical Rights Worldwide.

 

blackburn-empire-Sound & Vision – A tribute to David Bowie

Sound & Vision – A tribute to David Bowie

    MUSIC

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Thursday 29th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Fasten your seatbelts – the Starman is here!!

Sound & Vision – A Tribute to David Bowie was launched on what would have been Bowie’s 75th birthday in 2022.

While his career spanned five decades, he maintained his relevance to both his long-term ardent fans and younger emerging audiences. There has never been an artist that has offered inspiration to so many people within the music industry. His songs still have the ability to affect and influence music lovers across the world.

What makes Sound & Vision so special is their note-perfect recreation of the legend himself and the iconic musicians he loved to work with. The 7-piece band offers audiences a chance to fully appreciate each complex nuance of his many, many songs. And they’re all there… Ziggy Stardust, Life on Mars, Starman, All the Young Dudes, Rebel-Rebel, China Girl… and so many more.

Chris Burke has an unmatched vocal similarity to Bowie. His vocal ability allows you to enjoy each song being performed as you’d want them to be – perfectly recreating his voice. Close your eyes… you’d think he was in the room.

But it’s not just about the vocals. The musicianship and talent of the other band members is truly world class. The line-up includes:
Jeff John (Lead Guitar), John Wilmott (Bass), Colin Elward (Keyboards), Simon Harry (Rhythm Guitar), Gareth Addey (Drums) and Mike Davies (Saxophone).

The show is mesmerising with lights and a wonderful soundscape, designed to stimulate all your senses… and it includes a few surprises too. Suitable for all ages, and guaranteed to have you dancing in the aisles.

Celebrate David Bowie’s amazing music with us. It’ll be a memorable rock experience with the UK’s best sound-alike Bowie show.

 

blackburn-empire-Stax of Soul - Still Groovin’ Tour 2026

Stax of Soul – Still Groovin’ Tour 2026

    MUSIC

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Friday 20th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

43 years on… the rhythm remains, the soul endures; the music lives on, and so do we.

After another sensational run in 2025, STAX of SOUL return to The Empire with their Still Groovin’ Tour 2026! From their Manchester beginnings in 1983 to more than four decades of delivering powerhouse soul, the band keeps the music alive, celebrating the hits, the memories, and the fans who’ve made it all possible.

Prepare for an electrifying evening as this legendary nine-piece band brings the greatest soul sounds to life, backed by their signature brass section and unstoppable stage energy. STAX of SOUL delivers timeless classics from Stax, Atlantic, Motown, and Northern Soul, paying tribute to icons such as James Brown and The Blues Brothers.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration! Tickets for STAX of SOUL’s Still Groovin’ Tour 2026 at The Empire are expected to sell fast — secure yours now and join the legacy.

Featuring over 30 classic soul anthems:
~ Get Ready ~ Higher and Higher ~ Tenderness ~ My Girl ~ Stand By Me ~ (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction ~ Give Me Just A Little More Time ~ The Snake ~ Gimme Some Lovin’ ~ Minnie The Moocher ~ Shake a Tail Feather ~ Hold On, I’m Comin’ ~ Soul Man ~ I Got You (I Feel Good) ~ Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag ~ In the Midnight Hour ~ It’s The Same Old Song ~ Stop Her On Sight ~ and many more.

 

blackburn-empire-Sugar Pie Honey Bunch

Sugar Pie Honey Bunch

    MUSIC

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Friday 5th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

THE ONLY AMERICAN TRIBUTE SHOW CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF THE FOUR TOPS AND OTHER LEGENDARY MOTOWN ARTISTS TOURING THE UK

Paying homage to the legends, vocal group Soul Satisfaction brings the Motown magic back to the stage in a live concert with powerful vocals, splendid harmonies and high stepping dance routines.

You will be taken on a journey through all the hits of the Four TopsReach Out, Baby I Need Your Loving, Walk Away Renée, Same Old Song, Loco in Acapulco, Standing In the Shadow, Bernadette – along with other classic hits from the golden era, including songs from The Temptations, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, Ben E. King and many more Motown and soul legends.

One of Motown’s most legendary songwriters, Eddie Holland, from the Holland-Dozier-Holland team (responsible for all of the Four Tops’ greatest hits as well as other Motown classics), said:

"Soul Satisfaction is one of the most professional and tightest vocal groups that I have seen – and I have seen many groups in my time!"
Eddie Holland

Performed as it was back in the day, this show is world class!

Soul Satisfaction Guaranteed!
Reach Out and Get Ready Cos Here They Come!

DISCLAIMER: This show is a tribute, concept style show and not affiliated or endorsed by any original artistes/estates/management. Promoter reserves the right to alter the programme at any given time.

 

blackburn-empire-Simply Red Tribute: Holding Back The Years

Simply Red Tribute: Holding Back The Years

    MUSIC

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Thursday 27th August 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

With over 50 million albums sold worldwide and a catalogue of chart-topping hits such as "Holding Back The Years", "Stars", "Fairground", “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”, and “If You Don’t Know Me By Now”, Simply Red stand as one of Britain’s most iconic bands.

Paying meticulous attention to detail, Holding Back The Years faithfully recreates the authentic Simply Red concert experience. Whether performing in intimate venues or on the largest stages, this tribute band is dedicated to capturing the unique atmosphere and energy of a live Simply Red show.

At the core of Holding Back The Years is an exceptional lead vocalist, supported by a band of world class musicians. Together, they reproduce the distinctive sound and era-defining style of Mick Hucknall and Simply Red.

Join us as we honour one of the greatest British bands in history. Whether you’re a long-time Simply Red fan or simply appreciate superb musicianship and classic hits, you can look forward to a memorable evening filled with timeless music.

 

blackburn-empire-Something About George

Something About George

    MUSIC

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Thursday 26th February 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Something About George – The George Harrison Story, the musical biopic tribute about the so-called “quiet” Beatle is back following a hugely successful 2024 UK and Ireland tour.

“All Things Must Pass”, they say. Well, George Harrison’s name will live on forever. From the creators of Something About Simon – The Paul Simon Story and Something About Lennon – The John Lennon Story, comes a show that answers the question “where does life take you after being in the greatest band in the history of the world?”

Starring West End actor and musician Daniel Taylor,Something About George – The George Harrison Story tells the truly remarkable tale of
one of music’s most understated icons.

Featuring a five-piece band performing beautiful songs such as “My Sweet Lord”, “Something”, “Got My Mind Set On You” and “Handle With Care”, the show includes incredible solo material and music from rock n’ roll’s greatest supergroup, The Travelling Wilburys – not
forgetting more than a few Beatles’ classics along the way. From heartbreak to hedonism and song writing to instant success, Something About George will show you a life that was anything but quiet.

WHAT THE PRESS SAID…

“Something about Georgeis a show that will be around in the years to come.”

Wirral Globe

“All songs were performed superbly pitch perfect, giving a moving and entirely beautiful tribute.”

The Broken Spine

“I loved everything about this show, thank You for giving us such a brilliant night of non-stop
entertainment.”

Fairy Powered

 

blackburn-empire-STRONG ENOUGH – Ultimate Tribute Concert to Cher

STRONG ENOUGH – Ultimate Tribute Concert to Cher

    MUSIC

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Thursday 22nd October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get ready for an unforgettable evening, celebrating the global superstar and great female icon that is Cher.
Featuring all of the classic hits including Turn Back Time, I Found Someone, Believe, Strong Enough, Gypsies Tramps and Thieves, her modern Abba remixes and many more.

This is one show-stopping dazzling extravaganza you do not want to miss!
This show will take you on a musical journey from the Dark Lady days, to the rocking 80’s perm days and the celebration disco hits as we TURN BACK TIME and celebrate the queen of pop and rock.

‘Strong Enough’ features 25 smash hits, six decades of stardom and enough costume changes to cause a sequins shortage…
With full live band and dancers, come along and experience the passion, the flair and the glitter!

 

blackburn-empire-The Big Yellow Tambourine Man Band  Celebrate The Iconic Music of Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell

The Big Yellow Tambourine Man Band Celebrate The Iconic Music of Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell

    MUSIC

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Sunday 7th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Bob Dylan & Joni Mitchell are both ranked in Rolling Stone’s ‘Top Ten Singer-Songwriters of All Time’ and their legacy is honoured in this stunning tribute, ‘The Big Yellow Tambourine Man Band’.

With unrivalled musical authenticity this multi-instrumentalist five-piece covers all the hits including ‘Like a Rolling Stone’, ‘Both Sides Now’, ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’, and ‘Big Yellow Taxi’. The band is fronted by Bob Thomson and Isabelle Nutton as Bob and Joni.

An exhilarating evening of songwriting genius, expertly presented with passion and humour. Audiences will be taken on a journey through Joni’s and Bob’s histories, poetry and artistry, their trademark guitars and pianos backed by a full band and augmented with the evocative sounds of the Wurlitzer, harmonica and dulcimer.

Be totally swept along on the trip by loving recreations of the pair’s most recognisable finery, with stops in Greenwich Village, Laurel Canyon, Isle of Wight and beyond. This talented and enigmatic freewheelin’ five-piece with an eye for detail will make you feel like you’re really there, man…

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Roy 'Chubby' Brown

Roy ‘Chubby’ Brown

    COMEDY

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Saturday 11th July 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

After another SOLD OUT show Roy 'Chubby' Brown is back at The Empire.

50 plus years In Entertainment/Comedy, Roy Chubby Brown is still going strong, entertaining thousands and thousands of fans annually up and down the country, Roy is the undoubted King of Comedy.

Countless DVDs (30 plus), numerous books & cds, thousands of live shows in a career spanning the decades and millions of fans worldwide are still testimony to the fact that even in these on going crazy times of woke, cancellation, political correctness culture Roy is still the Best of the Best.

Come and join him for his 2025 tour plus support

NOT MEANT TO OFFEND IT'S SIMPLY COMEDY TOUR.