Operating as a charity, with a handful of staff and a large band of willing volunteers, the theatre has normally brought nearly 300 shows to the public every year and is the home for Blackburn Drama Club, Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society, Blackburn Musical Theatre Company, Junior Dance Schools, The Gos Entertainment Group and professional production company Pendle Productions.
The theatre welcomes a host of professional, amateur, local and school productions as well as the longest run of pantomime in the area. With a varied programme of music, comedy, dance, variety and family shows, it has become the main community hub for arts in the area.
The theatre launched their Crowdfunder fundraiser as part of the national #SaveOurTheatres campaign aiming to raise £6,000 towards securing the theatre’s future. With just hours to go before the deadline, donations reached the target.
Chairman Michael Berry said: “It took us 20 years to build the dream and reopen the theatre and we’ve been at the centre of arts productions in the area for the last 18 years.
“The response of the local community has been tremendous and to reach our fundraising target is amazing.
“In these difficult times, the directors, staff and volunteers would like to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who has supported us.”
The theatre, based in Ewood in Blackburn, still has opportunities for sponsors and donations can be made through the theatre’s website blackburnempire.com
