blackburn-empire-Buddy Holly & The Cricketers

Buddy Holly & The Cricketers

    MUSIC

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Sunday 12th July 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

All Holly’s hits and classics from his rock ’n’ roll pals are played live on stage by these five amazing young actor-musicians, who always delight crowds with their fabulous show.

Featuring raw rock ’n’ roll, beautifully haunting ballads, energetic performances, and some genuinely hilarious moments, there is no live event that delivers a better Buddy experience.

Audiences of all ages, all over the globe, have found it impossible to stay in their seats. From Dundee to Dubai, Swansea to Sweden, Taunton to Thailand, and all across the USA, thousands of fans have shown their appreciation with standing ovations and shouts for "more!"

So, whether you’re young in years or young at heart, this night with Buddy and the boys is guaranteed to have everyone singing along to the music and dancing in the aisles.

Whatever the season, whatever the excuse to party, Everyday is a Holly Day with Buddy Holly and The Cricketers!


Reviews

“The audience were dancing in the
aisles and roaring for more” The Stage

“Buddy brilliant!” Graham Norton, BBC One

“Fantastic…The best… tremendous
night out…I can’t praise the show enough” The Kent and Sussex Courier

“Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without Buddy Holly and The Cricketers” Somerset County Gazette

 

blackburn-empire-DS:UK…in Tribute to Dire Straits | ON anoTHEr NIGHT

DS:UK…in Tribute to Dire Straits | ON anoTHEr NIGHT

    MUSIC

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Friday 9th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

DS:UK – The ON anoTHEr NIGHT TOUR – 2026

1991 brought us the final Dire Straits album – On Every Street – and was
commemorated by an enormous 2 year world tour that was one of their
most successful to date.

In On Every Street, Mark created some classic Dire Straits songs such
as Calling Elvis, The Bug and On Every Street and the expanded line-up
created yet another ‘sound’ that remained instantly recognisable as
“Dire Straits”.

Over the past few tours, , DS:UK have become THE Dire Straits tribute show for true fans of Mark
Knopfler’s incredible band, earned by delivering the music with an attention to detail that few
tribute bands strive for.

The ON anoTHEr NIGHT show is DS:UK’s 5th tour, representing the
final era of Dire Straits’ phenomenal career, and brings a genuine and
unique experience that will bring fans the tracks they love from On
Every Street, alongside the classic Dire Straits songs you love to hear.
This will be DS:UK’s most packed and exciting set yet… are you and
your friend gonna come around?

Reviews

Becs Gifford recommends DS:UK -THE Dire Straits Tribute Show.
December 29, 2024

"Oh my we had such a lovely time seeing DS:Uk in Norwich, Maddermarket theatre. The quality of
the band members are amazing and it was very moving listening to Romeo and Juliet and Sultans
of Swing. The stories in between the songs added to the evening, and everyone we went with had
a great time. We can’t wait to see the Brothers in Arms tour 2025. If you love Dire Straits then do
go and see DS:Uk it’s a brilliant tribute to the music.

The Albert Hall, Llandrindod Wells recommends DS:UK -THE Dire Straits Tribute Show.
December 22, 2024

"The closest you’ll get to seeing the Real Dire Straits! These guys are the best Dire Straits tribute
on the circuit, and are great to work with! We look forward to their next visit!

Nick Markwell recommends DS:UK -THE Dire Straits Tribute Show.
December 18, 2024

"These guys are great band and a must see for any Dire Straits fan. We saw them in Canterbury
and enjoyed it so much we went to see them again two weeks later in Deal!
Very much looking forward to seeing them again in Canterbury 2025 for their Money for their
Brothers in ‘85 tour!!

John Bunning recommends DS:UK -THE Dire Straits Tribute Show.
December 14, 2024

"Have seen their show a few times and have again booked for another. If you are a Dire Straits fan
or enjoy live music then you will not be disappointed. One of the best band I have seen and they
continue to impress. One show not to be missing.

Links:

Website : www.direstraitstribute.co.uk
Facebook: facebook.com/dsuktribute
X: x.com/dsuktribute
Instagram: instagram.com/dsuktribute

 

blackburn-empire-Hurricane : The Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute

Hurricane : The Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute

    MUSIC

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Thursday 16th April 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

“An unforgettable night, with the voice of modern country music”

Get ready for an unforgettable night of country music with the Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute Show! This high-energy performance celebrates one of modern country’s biggest stars, bringing his chart-topping hits to life with precision and passion.

Fans of Luke Combs will feel as though they’re front and centre at one of his legendary concerts, as the tribute band delivers authentic renditions of his most beloved tracks, including:
“Hurricane”, “When It Rains It Pours”, “Beer Never Broke My Heart”, and “Forever After All.”

With a talented group of musicians, powerful vocals, and attention to every detail, this tribute show captures the heart and soul of Luke Combs’ music, showcasing his signature blend of southern charm and contemporary country sound.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his music, this show promises to transport you into the world of one of country’s biggest stars. Expect a night full of crowd favourites, intimate moments, and high-energy anthems.

Don’t miss out on the Ultimate Luke Combs Tribute Show — it’s a celebration of country music at its finest.

Grab your boots, bring your friends, and get ready to sing your heart out!

 

blackburn-empire-Calling Planet Earth

Calling Planet Earth

    MUSIC

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Friday 3rd July 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Recreating the electrifying 80s taking you on a musical memory right back to the nightclub dance floor!

Relive, sing, dance and party to many of the best 80s songs ever from artists such as Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Ultravox, Visage, Tears For Fears, ABC, Japan, Yazoo, Human League, Eurythmics and more.

Unforgettable hits such as Planet Earth, True, Tainted Love, Vienna, The Look Of Love and many, many more!

Performed by an incredible live band, awesome arrangements combined with stunning vocals. This show is without doubt the most stunning 80’s experience ever brought back to the future! “Calling Planet Earth- The show that defines a decade” 

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Bon Jovi Forever

Bon Jovi Forever

    MUSIC

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Saturday 28th March 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

BON JOVI FOREVER – The only Bon Jovi tribute show you need to see! 

A high energy, electric packed show guaranteed to raise your hands.

BJF are committed to reviving the 80/90s style show, receiving rave reviews from fans and venue's all over the UK.

Every performance is action packed and delivered with the artistry, energy and passion of the real thing.

A stunning stage show coupled with effects and explosions will make you believe you're watching the Real Bon Jovi from back in their heyday.

This show is guaranteed to give any fan of Bon Jovi ‘One Wild Night’.

 

blackburn-empire-Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story - The Platinum Years

Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story – The Platinum Years

    MUSIC

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Saturday 31st October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Celebrate 70 Platinum Years of iconic hits and Roy Orbison’s 90th birthday in this spectacular musical tribute! Barry Steele’s acclaimed Roy Orbison Story honours the unforgettable music of The Big O and the timeless sounds of the Traveling Wilburys. This special show marks a true milestone in rock ’n’ roll history, celebrating seven decades of legendary songs and what would have been Orbison’s 90th year.

Barry Steele is widely recognised as the real deal – with his uncanny ability to recreate the voice, look, and presence of Roy Orbison. His remarkable West End performances and international tours across New Zealand and Europe have earned rave reviews and standing ovations. Backed by a sensational live band, Barry delivers a show packed with passion, precision, and authenticity.

Audiences can expect world-class vocals, exceptional musicianship, and a heartfelt tribute that takes them on a nostalgic journey through some of the most iconic music ever written. From Orbison’s haunting ballads to the upbeat classics of the Traveling Wilburys, this is more than a concert – it’s a celebration of musical history.

Don’t miss this extraordinary evening of timeless music and lasting memories. Experience the Platinum Years – a night to remember with Barry Steele, the real deal!

 

Aladdin – Blackburn Christmas Pantomime 2026 – PRICES FROZEN for a LIMITED TIME

    FAMILY

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From Sat 21st November 2026 to Sun 3rd January 2027


by Tom Rolfe Productions – 38 shows to choose from.

Dust off your flying carpet and take a trip to Twankey’s Laundry as Tom Rolfe Productions return to the Blackburn Empire Theatre for an adventure like no other – bursting with comedy, chaos, a magical Genie, and plenty of audience participation, as well as all the usual panto fun Lancashire audiences love year after year!

More fun. More performances. Great views from every seat, free parking, and great value for the whole family!

So what are you waiting for? Make a trip to the Empire Theatre one of your three wishes at Christmas 2026!

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Heaven Can Wait - A Tribute to the Music of Meat Loaf

Heaven Can Wait – A Tribute to the Music of Meat Loaf

    MUSIC

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Friday 28th August 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Carlton Entertainment Presents – The Music of Meat Loaf

Carlton Entertainment brings you their brand-new production featuring Meat Loaf’s greatest hits.

Following a sold-out tour of Spain in 2024, this showstopping concert launches across Europe in 2025.

Featuring the incredible vocals of Lee Brady and an awesome band made up of the UK’s most highly-skilled and reputable rock musicians and female rock vocalists, this spellbinding concert will take you on a rollercoaster ride of Meat Loaf’s greatest hits of all time, including:

Anything For Love – Bat Out Of Hell – Paradise by the Dashboard Light – Took The Words Right Out Of My Mouth – Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad – Dead Ringer For Love and many, many more.

 

blackburn-empire-Anita Harris & Freddie Davies: A Lifetime of Memories

Anita Harris & Freddie Davies: A Lifetime of Memories

    VARIETY

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Saturday 31st January 2026 at 2:30pm


For one night only

Two of Britain's most beloved entertainers unite for this exceptional show, starring Anita Harris and Freddie Davies.

With countless television appearances, chart-topping recordings, and starring in Variety and Pantomime – and with Freddie Davies also featuring in Harry Potter – they’ve graced stages from the iconic London Palladium to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Together, they celebrate more than sixty remarkable years of captivating audiences with stories from behind the footlights and experiences that will leave you wanting to hear more!

 

blackburn-empire-Annie the Musical

Annie the Musical

    MUSIC

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From Thu 2nd April 2026 to Sun 5th April 2026


by Create Theatre Academy – 6 shows to choose from.

Join us for the heartwarming musical "Annie," where hope shines bright even in the darkest times! This beloved tale follows the spirited orphan Annie as she dreams of finding her parents and escaping the cruel orphanage run by the infamous Miss Hannigan.

When Annie gets the chance to spend a week with the wealthy Oliver Warbucks, her unwavering optimism transforms the lives of everyone around her. With catchy songs like "Tomorrow" and "It's a Hard Knock Life," this production promises laughter, tears, and inspiration. Experience the joy of friendship, love, and resilience as Annie embarks on an unforgettable journey that proves a little hope can change everything. Don't miss your chance to be inspired—come see "Annie"!