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.

 

blackburn-empire-The Adult Panto: Snow White and the Magnificent Seven

The Adult Panto: Snow White and the Magnificent Seven

    COMEDY

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Saturday 28th February 2026 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.

Can this fearless company of just three actors hold it all together and pull off their biggest challenge yet – their very own adult version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – 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 16s.

“Another very naughty 'big' show, pulled off with ease – exactly what the audience expects!”
A View from the Stalls (on 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-poster-Taylor Fever – The Ultimate Tribute to Taylor Swift

Taylor Fever – The Ultimate Tribute to Taylor Swift

    MUSIC

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Friday 9th January 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

Blackburn, get ready to be swept off your feet!

Taylor Fever, the ultimate tribute to the sensational Taylor Swift, is coming to the Empire Theatre on October 3rd, and you’re invited to join in on the excitement!

Secure your spot now by snagging your tickets before they vanish!

Alongside a talented squad of dancers, this tribute act will have you grooving and belting out Taylor’s iconic tunes, from “Ready For It” to “Shake It Off” and beyond.

It’s more than just a concert; it’s a one-of-a-kind live experience that’ll create lasting memories for everyone, regardless of age.

Don’t let this magical evening slip away – be a part of it!

 

The Cavern Beat Club starring The Fabs

    MUSIC

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Saturday 4th October 2025 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 UK, and at the very heart of these was The Cavern in Liverpool – a cellar venue that 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. In a fantastic night to remember, you'll hear songs made famous by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, The Searchers, The Merseybeats, The Who, The Spencer Davis Group, and many more iconic names.

It’s 'as it used to be'… a totally great, LIVE performance!

This is 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, who have performed 700+ times to date.

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

 

blackburn-empire-Strange

Strange, But True Crime

    VARIETY

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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

 

blackburn-empire-Thank ABBA for the Music

Thank ABBA for the Music

    MUSIC

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


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 Class of 55

    MUSIC

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Friday 16th January 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

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'!

 

blackburn-empire-The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

The Freddie & QUEEN Experience

    MUSIC

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Friday 10th October 2025 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, with most recently in UAE & Europe. They deliver a passionate & energy packed show 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 5 piece band consisting of some of finest musicians in the UK perform with replica outfits instruments & perform a full recreation of QUEEN's Live shows, based around QUEEN at there very best, the 86 'Magic tour'. It's simply a great show not to be missed!

 

Songs From The Rat Pack – The Northern Swing Orchestra

    MUSIC

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Sunday 28th September 2025 at 7:30pm


For one night only

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