blackburn-empire-Comedy Double Bill

Comedy Double Bill

    DRAMA

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

From Wed 4th March 2026 to Sat 7th March 2026


by Blackburn Drama Club – 4 shows to choose from.

The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish by David Tristram

Henry and Alice Smith’s marriage has lost its spark – so they each escape into wild fantasies to cope with the boredom of everyday life. Henry imagines himself a daring hero; Alice dreams of passion with a mysterious French lover. As their daydreams spiral out of control, fantasy and reality hilariously collide — all under the silent gaze of Orca, their goldfish, who sees everything. A witty and fast-paced comedy about love, imagination, and what happens when the grass on the other side of the fishbowl isn’t quite as green as it seems.

Romance is Dead by Ben Lewis

Lauren is a psychic… and she can see the dead! Once they realise she can see them, they cling to her, desperate for her to deliver their final messages. Ghosts follow her everywhere, from a 300-year-old highwayman to her recently departed flatmate. Meanwhile, Lauren is searching for love. When a disastrous date leaves her drinking alone, she meets Jamie, who works in his family’s antiques business. He confides that he’s discovered his brother has been siphoning money from the company and doesn’t know how to stop him.

But the night takes a tragic turn when Jamie is struck and killed. Death, however, isn’t the end. Jamie remains, haunting Lauren’s world, needing her help to settle his unfinished business before he can finally fade away.

 

blackburn-empire-Celine - My Heart Will Go On

Celine – My Heart Will Go On

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

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-Dancing... Through Life by Sutcliffe School of Dance

Dancing… Through Life by Sutcliffe School of Dance

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

From Thu 5th February 2026 to Sun 8th February 2026


Sutcliffe School of Dance proudly presents…

Dancing… Through Life

Get ready to be swept off your feet as the Sutcliffe School of Dance takes you on a spectacular journey of movement, music, and magic in our latest show: Dancing… Through Life!

This dazzling production celebrates the rhythm and joy of life through a dynamic showcase of tap, modern, ballet, and theatre dance styles. From the tiniest twirlers at age 3 to our accomplished senior performers, every dancer will bring their passion to the stage in a heartwarming, high-energy extravaganza.

Expect show-stopping numbers, stunning costumes, and unforgettable performances as we explore the many stages of life through the power of dance. Whether it's the playful innocence of childhood, the excitement of youth, or the elegance of experienceDancing… Through Life is a celebration for the whole family.

️ Don’t miss your chance to see our talented performers light up the stage — it’s a show full of heart, sparkle, and surprises!

Let us take you on a journey…
Because when words fail, we dance.

 

blackburn-empire-Desperate Scousewives

Desperate Scousewives

    COMEDY

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Wednesday 3rd June 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Get ready for a riotous, fast-paced comedy following the lives of three loud, no-nonsense Liverpool women and one nervous newcomer, all navigating life, love, loyalty, and lipstick on a tightly knit street.

Susan, Vanessa, and Lily dominate the street with their big personalities, big voices, and even bigger secrets. But everything is turned upside down with the arrival of Trisha, a single mum from Manchester, thrown into the lion’s den of long-established friendships and fierce loyalty.

Starring TV comedy legend Crissy Rock (Benidorm, I’m A Celebrity) and the show’s writer and director Lynne Fitzgerald, Desperate Scousewives is packed with unforgettable one-liners, high heels, heartbreak, and hilarity.

Not for the faint-hearted!

 

blackburn-empire-poster-Elvis Remembered

Elvis Remembered

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Saturday 22nd August 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Elvis Remembered takes you through the career of the King of Rock n Roll, Elvis Presley from the hits of the 50s n 60s to the concert shows of the 70s. Paul Molloy and The Memphis band bringing you a full two hour live show.

 

blackburn-empire-Choose Geroge: Celebrating George Michael

Choose George: Celebrating George Michael

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

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-Colin Manford - Off the Record

Colin Manford – Off the Record

    COMEDY

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Thursday 12th February 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

Music has shaped our lives — but have we ever stopped to investigate the madness behind it?

In Off The Record, comedian Colin Manford dives headfirst into the world of music, unearthing the weirdest lyrics, the hidden stories, and the wonderfully ridiculous moments behind the songs we all love (or hate).

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or someone who just nods along at weddings, this show will make you laugh, cringe, and never hear your favourite tracks the same way again.

One mic. One mission. No autotune.

18+

 

blackburn-empire-Buddy Holly & The Cricketers

Buddy Holly & The Cricketers

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

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

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

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-Beatles Complete

Beatles Complete

    MUSIC

%%tb-image-alt-text%%

Friday 1st May 2026 at 7:30pm


For one night only

DIRECT FROM THE WORLD-FAMOUS CAVERN CLUB, LIVERPOOL

Beatles Complete present a night of Beatlemania packed with massive hits from the most influential band of all time.

Having now performed over 200 shows at the world-famous Cavern Club, this Liverpool-based ‘beat combo’ are the youngest-ever Beatles band to gain a residency at The Cavern Club, where they still perform on Thursdays and some Saturdays.

Aged between 18 and 22, Beatles Complete are the closest thing you will get to the unbridled joy of seeing the young Beatles when they first lit up the world. They can’t promise all the screaming and tears from the 60s, but they can give you a host of classic songs, brilliantly performed by a band who are becoming a force to be reckoned with in the Beatle world.

Having performed at International Beatle Week for the last four years running, the lads have been invited to return again for 2025 and are continuing to take their extended show to theatres across the UK. The band has also appeared on BBC, as well as on TV in Japan and The Netherlands.

This show is not to be missed by all Beatles fans, performed by a band who are quickly making a name for themselves due to their musical prowess, boundless energy, and easy Liverpool wit.

The Beatles were a phenomenon in musical history – Beatles Complete remind you why.

“One of the most exciting Beatles tributes around.”Cavern Club, Liverpool