blackburn-empire-Tease - the Ultimate Burlesque & Cabaret Experience

Tease – the Ultimate Burlesque & Cabaret Experience

    VARIETY

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Friday 5th February 2027 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Step into the world of "Tease" – the ultimate burlesque and cabaret experience where sensuality and unadulterated fun collide to create an unforgettable evening.

Led by London’s top comedy compere and award-winning West End burlesque sensations, "Turkish Delight" and "Violet Thistletease", and our famous "Tease" group dancers. Combined with cabaret, circus and variety acts from across the UK, set to hit tracks from "Burlesque", "Chicago" and chart-topping tunes from Cher, Christina Aguilera and many more favourites, "Tease" is a captivating experience that will linger in your memory long after the curtains fall.

As the lights dim and the music fills the air, surrender yourself to the allure of "Tease." Feel liberated, sexy, and empowered as you laugh, cheer, and applaud along with a crowd united in the joy of the moment. Experience "Tease" – it's a celebration of love, life and the power of self-expression.

So book now and let's make a night to remember!

 

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 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-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-The D-Day Darlings – VICTORIOUS

The D-Day Darlings – VICTORIOUS

    VARIETY

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Sunday 4th April 2027 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Direct from the Royal Albert Hall

Following the success of their VE Day 80 Tour and triumphant performances at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, Britain’s beloved songbirds, The D-Day Darlings, proudly present their brand-new stage spectacular – Victorious, fronted by founder and lead singer Katie Ashby.

This uplifting show takes audiences on a nostalgic journey through the defining sounds of the 20th century, from the heartfelt harmonies of the 1940s to the swinging rhythms of the post-war eras.

With vintage glamour, soaring vocals, and moving storytelling, Victorious pays tribute to the heroes of the past while igniting the spirit of a new generation.

Expect timeless classics from Vera Lynn, The Andrews Sisters, and other musical icons whose songs have stood the test of time and stirred the hearts of millions.

The D-Day Darlings deliver another unforgettable show filled with patriotism, elegance, and joy. This is more than a performance… it’s a celebration of resilience, love, and legacy.

Suitable for all the family! NOT TO BE MISSED!

 

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-The Dublin Legends

The Dublin Legends

    MUSIC

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Monday 16th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The Dublin Legends – Sean Cannon, Paul Watchorn, Gerry O’Connor & Shay Kavanagh – keep the spirit of Irish folk music alive, performing all the classic songs and ballads loved the world over: Whiskey in The Jar, Dirty Old Town, The Wild Rover, Seven Drunken Nights, The Rare Auld Times, Molly Malone, The Irish Rover, Black Velvet Band – and many more.

With over 100 years of performing experience between them, the lads have wowed audiences across Europe and beyond, bringing the unmistakable sound of Irish folk to a whole new generation of fans.

It was after the sudden death of founding member Barney McKenna in 2012 and John Sheahan’s decision to retire that it was agreed The Dubliners, as a touring band, would end – and The Dublin Legends were born. Since then, they have carried on the proud tradition, touring extensively and recording albums that celebrate both old favourites and fresh arrangements.

Over the past ten years, the band have continued the legacy of The Dubliners by touring far and wide, playing concerts to a whole new generation of Irish music fans. They have wowed audiences in Iceland, Norway, Finland, The Faroe Islands, Sweden, Holland, Belgium, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, as well as across England, Scotland & Wales.

From Seven Drunken Nights to Whiskey in The Jar – make sure you join the boys for a pint or two on the road. They would be delighted to see you!

 

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.