Promotional image for the show 'Twist and Shout' in April 2027 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.
Blackburn Empire Theatre

Big nights out with real community spirit

From live music and family favourites to comedy, drama and dance, Blackburn Empire Theatre brings together great entertainment and the homegrown creativity that gives the venue its character.

Now booking: Twist and Shout – 8 April 2027

Choose seats See what’s on
SELLING FAST
Panto is coming soon

Aladdin – Blackburn Christmas Pantomime 2026

21 November to 3 January 2027 BLACKBURN'S BIG PANTO
Book tickets
Featured right now

Big nights out, made in Blackburn

From live music to family favourites, every visit feels different.

Explore the programme

Find your kind of night

Choose what suits you and book in seconds.

Music

Tribute nights, classic artists and big singalong shows.

  • Big singalong nights
  • Nostalgia and crowd favourites
More music shows

Family

Shows designed for shared experiences across generations.

  • Ideal for mixed-age groups
  • Daytime and early evening options
More family shows

Comedy

Stand-up and touring comedy for a proper night out.

  • Big laughs, close-up atmosphere
  • Great for couples and groups
More comedy shows

Drama and dance

A mix of local productions, visiting performances and showcases.

  • Local talent and touring work
  • Dance schools and stage productions
More drama shows More dance shows
On sale now

Coming up at Blackburn Empire

Book ahead and see what is on sale now.

Promotional image for the show 'The Opera Boys – The Farewell Tour starring Paul Potts' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.The Opera Boys – The Farewell Tour starring Paul PottsWednesday 7 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'Choose George: Celebrating George Michael' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.Choose George: Celebrating George MichaelThursday 8 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'DS:UK…in Tribute to Dire Straits | ON anoTHEr NIGHT' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.DS:UK…in Tribute to Dire Straits | ON anoTHEr NIGHTFriday 9 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'Club 80s Live – The UK’s Biggest Eighties Experience!' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.Club 80s Live – The UK’s Biggest Eighties Experience!Saturday 10 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'The Northern Swing Orchestra - A Tribute to Glenn Miller' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.The Northern Swing Orchestra – A Tribute to Glenn MillerSunday 11 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'The Searchers Experience Show - Starring Spencer James' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.The Searchers Experience Show – Starring Spencer JamesWednesday 14 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'The Johnny Cash Roadshow: The Prison Years Tour' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.The Johnny Cash Roadshow: The Prison Years TourThursday 15 October 2026Promotional image for the show 'Man of the World: The Music of Peter Green' in October 2026 at Blackburn Empire Theatre.Man of the World: The Music of Peter GreenFriday 16 October 2026
View all upcoming shows
Community and culture

A theatre with history and heart

Blackburn Empire is more than a feed of events – it is a charity, a local venue and a home for community creativity.

Rooted in Blackburn, open to everyone

Blackburn Empire Theatre is a volunteer-led charity with a long story and a strong local role. It is a place where audiences can enjoy visiting productions, while local groups, performers and community activity continue to have a real home on stage.

Every booking helps support something bigger than one night out.

Read about the charity Explore the theatre’s history Meet the affiliated groups

Plan your visit with confidence

Make it easy to say yes, with quick routes to seating, access, FAQs and directions before you ever reach checkout.

See the seating plan View access information Find us and contact us Read FAQs

Support the theatre

Book a ticket, donate, become a Friend or volunteer – every route helps keep live entertainment and community theatre thriving in Blackburn.

Donate to the Empire Become a Friend Volunteer with us

Ready for your next night out? From live music to family favourites, comedy, drama and dance, Blackburn Empire Theatre is packed with reasons to come back.

See what’s on