blackburn-empire-Empire Comedy Club March 2026

Empire Comedy Club March 2026

    COMEDY

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Thursday 19th March 2026 at 8:00pm


by Plane Comedy for one night only

The Empire Comedy Club is back for another cracking night of stand-up at Blackburn Empire Theatre!

Headlined by Sam Avery – award-winning comedian, bestselling author, renowned speaker and viral blogger – this show brings together a top-tier line-up and a room full of laughs. Sam’s debut tour sold out venues across the UK, and his online videos have racked up 15 million+ views.

Joining him are two brilliant rising and established acts: Eddie Fortune, the Liverpool comic described as a “comedic tornado”, mixing rapid-fire gags with the occasional existential twist (and even the odd poem or song), plus Liam Alexander, a Manchester-based comedian who started in 2023 and has quickly become a fresh new name on the circuit.

Holding it all together is your host and MC Colin Manford – a razor-sharp compère with credits including writing for 8 Out of 10 Cats and Walk on the Wild Side, plus a growing reputation for handling any crowd and keeping the pace flying.

Tickets are just £7.50 – and if you’re planning to come to all three Comedy Club nights this year, you can grab the 3-show bundle for £19.95: simply add tickets for each show to the same basket and your season pass discount will apply.

Please note: Line-ups are always subject to change

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Empire Social Club - Community • Friendship • Fun

Empire Social Club – Community • Friendship • Fun

    VARIETY

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From Tue 10th March 2026 to Tue 30th June 2026


The Empire Social Club is a warm, welcoming get-together at Blackburn Empire Theatre, created to bring people together through Community • Friendship • Fun.

Running every two weeks, it’s open to anyone who fancies a relaxed couple of hours out – whether you’re coming along with friends or popping in on your own to meet new people.
Expect a friendly atmosphere with a mix of light activities and social time – from games like Scrabble, dominoes, cards and sudoku, to themed “fun sessions” such as crafts, art and other easy-going activities. Or simply enjoy a good chat over a brew.

Tea, coffee and biscuits are available, with a suggested £2 donation to support future social and volunteer activities.

Free to attend – no need to book – just turn up.

Location: Berry Room
Entrance: via the Box Office door at the back of the theatre

  • Tue 13 Jan 2026

  • Tue 27 Jan 2026

  • Tue 10 Feb 2026

  • Tue 24 Feb 2026

  • Tue 10 Mar 2026

  • Tue 24 Mar 2026

  • Tue 7 Apr 2026

  • Tue 21 Apr 2026

  • Tue 5 May 2026

  • Tue 19 May 2026

  • Tue 2 Jun 2026

  • Tue 16 Jun 2026

  • Tue 30 Jun 2026

  •  

    blackburn-empire-Man of the World: The Music of Peter Green

    Man of the World: The Music of Peter Green

        MUSIC

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    Friday 16th October 2026 at 7:30pm


    For one night only

    Celebrating the life and music of Peter Green, founder of the original Fleetwood Mac. Guitarist Remi Harris will be joined by vocalist Dave Small, bassist Tom Moore and Shane Dixon on drums to perform music from throughout Peter Green's career. Including such classics as Man Of The World, Black Magic Woman, Need Your Love So Bad, Albatross and The Green Manalishi (With The Two Prong Crown).

     

    blackburn-empire-poster-MAMA presents - A Tribute to Genesis

    MAMA presents – A Tribute to Genesis

        MUSIC

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    Saturday 2nd May 2026 at 7:30pm


    For one night only

    Experience the power, passion, and precision of one of the UK’s most acclaimed Genesis tribute bands – Mama.

    Renowned for their phenomenal musicianship and authentic recreations, Mama faithfully reproduce the sights and sounds of a high-octane Genesis rock concert, bringing fans the very best of this legendary band’s music.

    From the progressive early Peter Gabriel years, through the chart-topping Phil Collins era of the 70s and 80s, right up to the band’s final studio album We Can’t Dance, Mama take you on an unforgettable journey through Genesis’ incredible catalogue.

    Expect to hear all the classics – In The Cage Medley, Mama, Los Endos, Home By The Sea, The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway, and Ripples – plus fan favourites such as Follow You Follow Me, In The Air Tonight, No Son Of Mine, Land Of Confusion, and A Trick of The Tail.

    Frontman John Wilkinson delivers the unmistakable Phil Collins vocal sound with electrifying accuracy, backed by a line-up of exceptional talent – Andy Keegan (keyboards), Simon D’Vali (guitars), James Cooper (drums), and Dave Jones (bass, 12-string guitar, bass pedals). Together, they create a show bursting with energy, emotion, and musical excellence.

    As John says:

    “The idea of a Mama show is to celebrate the music of Genesis by having a Genesis party. We’re huge Genesis fans, just like our audience. It’s amazing to meet so many likeminded fans as we tour the UK year after year – they know what they like!”

    Join Mama for a night of epic anthems, musicianship, and nostalgia – a spectacular live celebration of Genesis that no true fan should miss!

     

    blackburn-empire-Les Misérables : School Edition

    Les Misérables : School Edition

        MUSIC

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    From Fri 17th July 2026 to Sun 19th July 2026


    by Act One Beginners – 5 shows to choose from.

    Following
    on from their two previous SOLD OUT productions of Disney's Frozen JR. in July
    2024, and Dreamworks Shrek JR. in March 2025, Lancashire based Performing Arts
    School, Act One Beginners, are back for FIVE PERFORMANCES in 2026 with the most
    popular musical of all time 'Les Misérables'.

    Winner
    of over 100 international awards and seen by over 65 million people worldwide,
    Les Misérables is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human
    spirit. Now adapted for high school performers, Les Misérables School Edition
    features one of the most memorable scores of all time and some of the most
    memorable characters to ever grace your stage.

    In 19th century France, Jean Valjean is released from years of unjust
    imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment.
    He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a life-long
    struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector
    Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways. Finally, during the
    Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean
    spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured
    the heart of Valjean's adopted daughter.

    Epic, grand and uplifting, Les Misérables School Edition packs an emotional
    wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. The sung-through piece
    is ideal for a cast of exceptional singers and overflows with melodies that are
    already standards. This author-approved edition has been abridged to a running
    time of just over two hours, while carefully maintaining the integrity of one
    the greatest musicals ever written.

    Further
    details about Act One Beginners can be found on their
    website actonebeginners.uk or
    via the usual social media links.

    Les
    Misérables : School Edition

    Performed entirely by
    students.

    A musical by ALAIN BOUBLIL and CLAUDE-MICHEL SCHÖNBERG

    School Edition special adaptation licensed by

    MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL and CAMERON MACKINTOSH (OVERSEAS) LIMITED

     

    blackburn-empire-Forever Billy Joel

    Forever Billy Joel

        MUSIC

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    Sunday 6th September 2026 at 7:30pm


    For one night only

    Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey as Phil Mountford, multi award-winning film composer and renowned performer, leads the sensational Forever Billy Joel tribute show! Celebrating the iconic songs and timeless hits of the legendary Piano Man, this tribute show delivers a powerful experience that will have you singing, swaying, and reminiscing from start to finish.

    From “Piano Man” to “Uptown Girl”, “New York State of Mind” to “Scenes from an Italian Restaurant”, and “We Didn’t Start the Fire” to “Just the Way You Are”, the unforgettable performance delivers so many iconic songs you know and love.

    This dedicated group of musicians, Forever Billy Joel, reimagines the sound and spirit of Billy Joel’s greatest hits, ensuring a seamless blend of nostalgia and fresh energy.

    Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Billy Joel’s music or discovering his brilliance for the first time, Forever Billy Joel promises an incredible night of musical nostalgia, energy, and pure entertainment.

    Join us for a tribute that honours the man, the music, and the legend.

     

    blackburn-empire-Just Tina

    Just Tina

        MUSIC

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    Sunday 31st May 2026 at 7:30pm


    For one night only

    Come and shake a tail feather with the UK's supreme Tina – Justine – and her talented cast from the hit show Totally TINA!

    This breathtaking recreation of a live Tina Turner concert celebrates the golden anniversary of the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll's signature tune Proud Mary. Tina's no-holds-barred take on the song established a reputation for fearsome live performances – and those never-ending legs!

    Early hits, including River Deep – Mountain High and Nutbush City Limits, were just a taste of what was to come. We Don't Need Another Hero, Simply the Best, What's Love Got to Do With It, I Don't Wanna Lose You and When the Heartache is Over propelled Tina to stadium concert stardom.

    Supported by her dazzling dancing girls in sequins, feathers and diamonds, Justine recreates those famed live performances for one night only.

     

    blackburn-empire-Folk Rock Pioneers Steeleye Span In Concert

    Folk Rock Pioneers Steeleye Span In Concert

        MUSIC

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    Sunday 26th April 2026 at 7:30pm


    For one night only

    Together for fifty six years now, Steeleye Span changed the face of folk music forever by taking it into the world of gold discs and international tours. Now they return with Conflict, their first full studio album in over five years. All traditional singers have sung modern and self-composed pieces alongside old songs, Conflict is an album that follows in that very tradition. The album’s title was chosen as much to reflect the times we find ourselves in, but also the stretch and tear of our relationship with this planet that hosts us.

    The band will undertake a full UK tour in support, their first live dates of the year. As ever – and with such a rich history to choose from – the night will offer a selection of songs from across the years and firm fan favourites.

    “Don't miss them…” – The Independent

     

    blackburn-empire-Katie Hopkins: Free Range

    Katie Hopkins: Free Range

        COMEDY

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    From Wed 27th May 2026 to Sat 30th May 2026


    Come and join your family on the road for another cracking evening out with British funny woman, Katie Hopkins. Whether you are 18 or 80, on date night with your hubby, a Single Pringle Mingle or a bus load of sturdy lesbians, you belong. Never heard of her? Even better.

    After a fully SOLD OUT run in 2025, KATIE IS BACK with an ALL NEW SHOW for 2026, Katie will bring her unapologetic humour back to the stage for a night of laugh-out-loud stand-up comedy where you will remember how it feels to belong.

    Katie is giving herself ‘FREE RANGE’ on all the usual targets: useless politicians, idiot celebrities and the morons in our midst. All your favourites from ‘Batsh*t Boners Britain’ will be in there: Lanyard Linda, Fat Brenda and Ceramic Bob head Rachel Reeves, together with Katie’s new characters for 2026.

    Katie overshares her own humiliating failures for the biggest laughs; including her struggles with the thought police, Anusol sponsorship and a drooping undercarriage.

    “I’m giving people free range to laugh with me and at me: No rules; no limits; no apologies. Have a night off from pretending to be proper, and laugh till your face hurts”. 

    Quotes:

    “We haven’t laughed that hard since the 70s” Adam, Rugby

    “I brought my husband. He doesn’t know Katie. He is now her biggest fan, best date night ever” Rachel, Perth

    “I laughed till I cried. I cannot remember the last time I laughed like that” Carolyn, Swansea

    “What a lovely audience, all ages, all sorts” Skegness Empire Theatre

     

    blackburn-empire-It's A Beautiful Noise with Fisher Stevens - The Neil Diamond tribute

    It’s A Beautiful Noise with Fisher Stevens – The Neil Diamond tribute

        MUSIC

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    Friday 30th October 2026 at 7:30pm


    For one night only

    From London's West End to your doorstep

    Immerse yourself in the unparalleled celebration of the legendary Neil Diamond's music with our internationally acclaimed production!

    Fisher Stevens Takes Center Stage:
    Experience the sheer brilliance of Fisher Stevens, undeniably one of the BEST Neil Diamond impersonators. Direct from the Lyric Theatre in London's Shaftesbury Avenue, Fisher Stevens and our fantastic cast of professional musicians and singers are ready to transport you through five decades of musical brilliance.

    A Musical Icon Celebrated:
    Neil Diamond, a musical icon with a career spanning over five decades, has left an indelible mark on the music world. From his Brill Building hits to The Jazz Singer and unforgettable live concerts, his legacy is celebrated in every note of this exceptional show.

    Sparkling Musical Gems:
    Join us on a musical adventure like no other, revisiting over 130 million albums' worth of classic hits. From Love On The Rocks to Sweet Caroline, Forever In Blue Jeans, Song Sung Blue, I am… I Said, America, Cracklin’ Rosie, Red Red Wine, I’m A Believer, and many more – each song is a sparkling gem that has defined generations.

    Don't miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration! Secure your tickets now and get ready to be transported through the timeless sounds of Neil Diamond.