blackburn-empire-Shrek The Musical JR.

Shrek The Musical JR.

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


by Act One Beginners – 3 shows to choose from.

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

 

blackburn-empire-Masters of Deception

Masters of Deception

    FAMILY

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Sunday 23rd March 2025 at 6:30pm


For one night only

"Masters of Deception" brings you the very best in magic and illusion, featuring none other than Richard Jones, "The Military Mind-Reader." As the only magician to have ever won Britain's Got Talent, Richard combines his 12 years of British Army training and expert knowledge of deception to deliver cutting-edge magic and psychological illusion.

Joining him on stage is Matricks Illusion, recently featured on Disney+, who bring their unique and innovative style to the stage. Fresh from London's West End and Wembley Arena, they blend danger, comedy, and charm to create a mesmerising experience you won't forget.

Praise for the Show:

  • King Charles: "Absolutely Mind Boggling!"
  • KSI: "Absolutely Love You Guys."
  • ITV Studios: "Wow! Wasn’t that Fantastic." – What's On Stage

 

blackburn-empire-Dazzling Diamonds

The Dazzling Diamonds – Comedy Drag Show

    VARIETY

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Saturday 10th January 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

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!

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Empire Comedy Club

Empire Comedy Club

    COMEDY

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Saturday 22nd March 2025 at 8:00pm


For one night only

Get ready for a night of top-tier comedy at the Empire Comedy Club, where the laughs are non-stop, and the ticket price is just £7.50—a bargain for a triple-headline show featuring some of the UK’s most exciting comedy talent! Hosted by the inimitable Colin Manford, this show promises fresh humour and unforgettable performances from award-winning comedians.

Featuring:

Nina Gilligan Winner of the BBC Audio Award (2024) and Chortle’s Best Club Comedian (2023), Nina Gilligan is known for her sharp wit and outrageous humour. With accolades like Northwest Comedian of the Year and Best Act at the Yorkshire Comedy Awards, Nina’s talent shines through her unique blend of charm and acerbic insight. Described as “a bolshier Mrs Merton” and “naturally funny,” she’s a performer who can captivate any crowd with her unfiltered and hilarious take on life.

Anthony Williams A natural storyteller, Anthony Williams has been taking the comedy scene by storm with his relatable humour and charismatic stage presence. His ability to weave everyday experiences into hilarious narratives makes him a joy to watch and guarantees plenty of laughs.

Rob Rouse One of comedy’s most lively and dynamic performers, Rob Rouse brings energy and honesty to his shows. Known for his role in the BBC sitcom Upstart Crow, he’s been hailed as “a born clown” and “genuinely funny.” With TV credits on 8 Out of 10 Cats, Celebrity Juice, and more, Rob is a true master of comedic storytelling, delivering tales filled with wit, warmth, and a delightful touch of absurdity.

Ticket Price: Only £7.50 This exceptional line-up brings you the best in live comedy for an unbeatable price.

Important Notes:

  • Line-ups are subject to change
  • Strictly 18+ only

Join us for a night of unforgettable comedy at the Empire Comedy Club—get your tickets now and prepare to laugh like never before!

 

blackburn-empire-Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story

Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story

    MUSIC

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Friday 17th October 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Join Barry
Steele’s Roy Orbison Story for an unforgettable evening celebrating the
legendary Roy Orbison and the iconic Traveling Wilburys!

Experience
captivating performance’s that brings the timeless hits and heartfelt stories
to life. Enjoy classic hits like "Oh, Pretty Woman,"
"Crying," and "Only the Lonely,"
performed with passion and
authenticity and relive the magic of the Travelling Wilburys with favourites
such as "Handle with Care" and "End of the Line." 

With a
sprinkling of selected songs from Johnny Cash, ELO, and Tom Petty, The Roy
Orbison Story showcases the vast influence of The Big O and his friends on rock
and pop music. 

Barry
Steele, a celebrated performer, captures the essence of these musical icons
with his dynamic stage presence and vocal talent. – Not only is this production
perfect for fans of all ages, this show also promises to take you on a
nostalgic journey through some of the greatest songs in music history. 

Feel the
energy of live performance as the show  brings these classic songs to life
in a way that only a live show can. Don’t miss this chance to relive the magic
of Roy Orbison and his contemporaries! Grab your friends and family and get
ready for a night filled with unforgettable music and memories. 

 

blackburn-empire-King Of Pop starring Navi

King Of Pop starring Navi

    MUSIC

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Saturday 13th September 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

King Of Pop is led by the world’s greatest Michael Jackson tribute artist ‘Navi’, with his incredible live band and dancers.

Navi is the only tribute artist ever to be chosen by Michael Jackson himself. Michael personally gave Navi a standing ovation after he was invited to perform at one of MJ's lavish birthday parties in Los Angeles. They remained friends, and due to Navi’s incredible resemblance to the star, Navi was regularly hired as an official body double and decoy to distract fans and press when Michael visited the UK.

Navi’s thrilling show will take you closer than ever imagined to an original Jackson concert. Don’t miss this outstanding production featuring hits such as Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, Black or White, Man In The Mirror, and the ‘Jackson Five’ classics in a show suitable for the whole family.

 

blackburn-empire-Love Really Hurts Without You

Love Really Hurts Without You

    MUSIC

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Saturday 4th July 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The hit show that celebrates the music of the legend that is – Billy Ocean.

One of our best loved British artists spanning a career over four decades. Selling over 30 million records
worldwide including countless Gold and platinum number 1's in the USA, Australia, Europe and the UK.

This electrifying show takes in all the massive hits and more including CARIBBEAN QUEEN, WHEN THE
GOING GETS TOUGH, SUDDENLY, RED LIGHT SPELLS DANGER, LOVE REALLY HURTS WITHOUT YOU,
LOVERBOY, GET OUTTA MY DREAMS, THERE’LL BE SAD SONGS.

Be prepared for an unforgettable night out in the company of the songs that will invoke such great
memories of happy youthful days and nights, fun and friendships. Songs that always filled the dance floor
or had us all singing along to the sounds of the car stereo.
A high energy feel good show performed to perfection with incredible vocals and an amazing live band.

Calling all Caribbean Queens, love really does hurt without you.
If the going gets tough, you've got to get going.
Then suddenly, you're in love 
www.billyoceanshow.com

 

Sleeping Beauty

    FAMILY

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Sunday 13th April 2025 at 1:00pm


by Tom Rolfe Productions for one night only

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.

 

blackburn-empire-An Audience with Mick Miller

An Audience with Mick Miller

    COMEDY

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Thursday 28th August 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Mick
Miller is a comedy legend who has been at the top of his game for over 40
years.
His workload is as busy now as it has ever been, he never stops! His
deadpan delivery and his unique hairstyle are what people remember, but he
constantly works on his act and is forever adding new gags and stories to keep
it fresh. He can’t leave a venue without performing his set piece, Noddy
routine. The audience just wouldn’t let him!

In
this show, Mick performs a full comedy set in the 1st half and in
the 2nd half is interviewed by comedian and close friend, Ryan
Gleeson. The interview is very funny and informative, and it’s never the same
twice. Ryan is always trying to find out new things and Mick keeps trying to
make Ryan laugh.

This
show is a must for comedy fans.

This event is for 16 and over

 

Ken Webster – Outrageous Comedy Hypnotist

    COMEDY

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Thursday 21st August 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Ken Webster
is considered to be one of the UK’s greatest stage hypnotists. His live shows
are often described as "outrageously funny" with the emphasis on outrageous!

If
you have never been to a hypnosis show, you are in for a real treat as audience
members become the stars of the show. You won’t believe what they get up to
whilst on stage as Ken acts as the ringmaster in this circus of fun. He is
always coming up with new ideas for the volunteers, sometimes changing their
names or giving them imaginary very personal itches! All volunteers are perfectly
safe and all hypnotic suggestions are removed before they leave the venue.

Ken Webster
complies with all current regulations regarding Hypnosis Shows.

This show is
for 18 years and above, due to strong language and "adult themes".