VARIETY
Friday 2nd October 2026 at 7:30pm
For one night only
Join international Esoteric Medium David Holt for an evening of clairvoyance live at Empire Theatre, Blackburn.
David is renowned for giving exact names, dates, and details that could only be know to those in the unseen world. With no two evenings ever the same you are in for a unique supernatural experience.
Get ready to believe.
MUSIC
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!
FAMILY
Sunday 12th April 2026 at 1:00pm
by Tom Rolfe Productions for one night only
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!
FAMILY
From Sat 21st November 2026 to Sun 3rd January 2027
by Tom Rolfe Productions – 37 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!
DRAMA
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.
MUSIC
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.
From Thu 5th February 2026 to Sun 8th February 2026
✨ 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 experience — Dancing… 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.
COMEDY
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!
MUSIC
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"!
MUSIC
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
