blackburn-empire-DanceSyndrome presents EXPRESS ’26

DanceSyndrome presents EXPRESS ’26

    DANCE

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Thursday 11th June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

DanceSyndrome presents EXPRESS ’26

Act 1 will bring together performances from DanceSyndrome’s DS Youth performance collective and group pieces created in Everybody Dance community dance workshops across Lancashire.

In Act 2, DanceSyndrome will present "Spectrum: The Colours of Life," a journey from a monochrome world into a vibrant rainbow celebration of diversity. DanceSyndrome's performance company will use colours to explore a range of different emotions from joy and love to sadness and transformation, building to a finale where all colours, emotions and voices are brought together in unity.

 

blackburn-empire-Club 80s Live – The UK’s Biggest Eighties Experience!

Club 80s Live – The UK’s Biggest Eighties Experience!

    MUSIC

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Saturday 10th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

The UK’s Biggest Eighties Experience!

Fun and sunshine, there’s enough for everyone: Club 80s is coming to town.

Hits by Dexys Midnight Runners, Culture Club, Guns N’ Roses, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Erasure, Bon Jovi, Wham!, Deacon Blue, and many, many more are crammed into a non-stop, musical trip – back-combed to the time that fashion forgot!

A band tighter than a Spandex leotard, dancers shining brighter than all the neon in Vegas, are backed by a cast that stands head and shoulder pads above the rest – in a show where the costume changes come just as thick and fast as the hits.

So, give the Rubik’s Cube a night off and have yourself a night to remember. Whether you were workin’ as a waitress in a cocktail bar or just a city boy, let Club 80s take your hand back to the happiest days of your life.

This show includes amazing sound and light, with big screen visuals, and includes a mind blowing illusion that sees a mannequin turn in to a real girl in front of the audience's eyes, as they sing the amazing Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now. An amazing show that cannot be missed !!!!!

Amazing audiences since 2013, this is a show that has to be seen. It’s the ultimate night out and a night you won’t forget.

 

blackburn-empire-Cal Halbert - 100 Impressions In One Hour

Cal Halbert – 100 Impressions In One Hour

    COMEDY

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Wednesday 21st October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Cal Halbert is one of the UK's top all round entertainers, and the top comedy impressionist working the UK comedy circuit.

As one half of The Mimic Men, he appeared on Britain's Got Talent in 2016, receiving a standing ovation and 4 yeses. He has since gone on to appear on The Gadget Show, BBC, ITV and Channel 5.

'Uncanny imitations' (The Sun).
'Hard to beat' (British Comedy Guide).
‘Something For Everyone' (The Scotsman).
'You blew my mind' (Michael McIntyre).
'Hilarious' (Daily Mail).
'Excellent' (Daily Mirror).

plus support

 

blackburn-empire-ConneXtion - The Dance Showcase 2026

ConneXtion – The Dance Showcase 2026

    DANCE

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Wednesday 30th September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

A showcase that utilises the tool of dance to explore and express social issues in our world.

This year we are bringing awareness to the topic of Racism and how it is affecting our communities.

We are uniting as one to connect, share our stories, and create a wave of change.

 

blackburn-empire-DESPERADOS: The Music & Legacy of Eagles

DESPERADOS: The Music & Legacy of Eagles

    MUSIC

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Thursday 3rd September 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Prepare to be transported back to the golden era of classic West Coast rock as Desperados faithfully captures the essence and spirit of EAGLES. Their impeccable harmonies, flawless instrumentation, and passion for their craft make their show one not to be missed!

Expect all the classics including Hotel California, Lyin’ Eyes, Peaceful Easy Feelin’ – as well as songs from Don Henley, Glenn Frey & Joe Walsh’s solo careers.

Sit back, Take It Easy, and bask in the glow of one of music history’s greatest songbooks.

 

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!

 

blackburn-empire-Beauty and the Beast - Easter Pantomime

Beauty and the Beast – Easter Pantomime

    FAMILY

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Sun 12th April at 1:00pm & Sun 12th April 2026 at 5:00pm


by Tom Rolfe Productions – 2 shows to choose from.

Get ready for a magical Easter treat of a Tale as Old As Time as Tom Rolfe Productions (the same team behind our smash hit Christmas panto Snow White!) return to The Empire with a brand-new panto promising dazzling costumes, catchy songs, and laugh-out-loud comedy for the whole family.

Starring Tom Rolfe as the cheeky Tommy Teacup and Stee Leahy as the fabulous Tilly Teapot, join Belle on an unforgettable journey to break the Beast’s curse in this enchanting tale with a panto twist.

A spellbinding adventure awaits — don’t miss out, book your tickets now for a brew-tiful family day out!

 

blackburn-empire-Celine - My Heart Will Go On

Celine – My Heart Will Go On

    MUSIC

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Thursday 1st October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Step into the world of Celine Dion like never before with My Heart Will Go On, a breathtaking concert experience that brings the legendary singer’s iconic hits to life. This electrifying production has been wowing audiences across Europe for four years, earning critical acclaim and rave reviews for its powerhouse performances and unforgettable musical journey.

Featuring a sensational live band, My Heart Will Go On takes concertgoers on a thrilling ride through four decades of Celine Dion’s greatest songs. From timeless classics like The Power of Love and It’s All Coming Back to Me Now to the soulful All By Myself and the unforgettable ballad My Heart Will Go On, each performance captures the magic and heart of Celine’s unparalleled career.

A must-see for fans and music lovers alike, this celebration of Celine Dion’s music promises to leave you inspired, moved, and filled with the energy of her extraordinary legacy.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the music that has touched hearts around the world.

 

blackburn-empire-Choose George: Celebrating George Michael

Choose George: Celebrating George Michael

    MUSIC

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Thursday 8th October 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

With the production now in its third year, CHOOSE GEORGE – Celebrating George Michael continues to amaze fans throughout the UK and Europe. The show features early Wham! hits right through to George Michael’s later songs, all performed perfectly by the incomparable Steve Mitchell.

Steve is considered by many to be the closest George’s vocal fan for most of his life, which is apparent in his detailed and passionate performance of the songs. Shirley Lewis (George Michael’s long-time backing vocalist) said “…Having listened to George Michael up close and personal, Steve has a similar timbre to my ear”.

The show also features Ex-Wham! bassist, Dave West who worked with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley on the first sessions for Wham Rap, Careless Whisper and Club Tropicana.

Just a few quotes from George fans at recent shows…

“Absolutely the most spectacular and special thing I have ever seen…”
“So like the real George. You’ve got to see him…”
“The energy was incredible. Constant dancing…”
“Steve has the voice of George Michael, so uncanny and incredible. Close your eyes and its George Michael.”BBC

 

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

The Rock ’n’ Roll Legends Show

34 Years of Rock ’n’ Rolling the World — on TV, Radio & In Venues Worldwide

“Buddy brilliant!” – Graham Norton, BBC One

For more than three decades, this sensational show has Rock ’n’ Rolled audiences on TV, radio and in theatres and outdoor venues across the globe — from Croydon to California, Barking to Bangkok and Swindon to Sweden. With standing ovations every night, it’s hard to imagine the show getting any better… but for 2026, it just has.

The brand-new Rock ’n’ Roll Legends Show celebrates all of Buddy Holly’s best-loved songs, alongside the biggest hits from fellow 50s icons including Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, Eddie Cochran, The Everly Brothers and Ray Charles.

With 34 years of sell-out UK and international touring, Buddy Holly and The Cricketers has firmly established itself as the ultimate live rock ’n’ roll experience. Featuring five top actor-musicians, the show was endorsed as Britain’s most popular Buddy Holly act when the boys appeared on BBC One’s primetime entertainment show The One and Only, hosted by Graham Norton.

Every night, this amazing show brings to life the songs parents danced to, grandparents fell in love to and families still cherish today. From Buddy’s timeless hits to the unmistakable voices of Elvis, Little Richard and The Everly Brothers, every number is performed with warmth, joy and the irresistible energy only live music can deliver.

Children adore the show too — they’re often the first on their feet, and when they start dancing, the whole room follows.

The Buddy Holly & The Cricketers Rock ’n’ Roll Legends Show is the ultimate night out for all ages. Whatever the season and whatever the excuse to celebrate, make your heartbeat a little faster with the show that has thousands of fans around the world saying:

“I can’t believe it’s not Buddy!”