A CAST of singers and actors are performing a musical for free to thank the theatre that started their careers.

The cast of the re-opening show at Blackburn Empire Theatre this Friday, June 4, have a very special reason to return to the theatre as they all started their journey to professional careers on the Empire stage.

The theatre reopens on Friday after 14 months of closure due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The show, Magic of Musicals, is hosted by comedy magic double-act, Two Men Without Assistance, and features an all-singing and dancing cast of performers who are giving their services free to raise funds for the theatre and to say thank you for the start they were given in the entertainment industry.

The duo has wowed audiences across Europe, with a unique brand of slapstick comedy, mixed with mind-blowing illusions.

Frankie Rogers, from the duo, said: "The very start of our double act journey began at the Blackburn Empire Theatre and we couldn’t be prouder to be re-opening this incredible venue after 14 long months.

“This will be an evening of fun and celebration as we are joined on stage by other artistes who also began their journey at the theatre and have since gone on to work professionally around the world.

"It’s a reminder that the arts are still here, and that theatre is a crucial part of our community and economy.”

Michael Berry, chairman of The Empire, said: “It’s been an incredibly difficult time since we had to close in March 2020 and we must thank everyone who has supported us.

"From our customers, who have been incredibly patient and understanding, to our volunteers who really are some of the best people you could imagine.

“The local community has rallied round the theatre and this reopening show is very special to us. All the artists on stage took their first steps on The Empire stage and we are incredibly proud to welcome them back for Magic of Musicals.

“It’s going to be a very emotional night.”

The show, which will operate with socially distanced seating is a sell-out, with the theatre only able to operate with an audience of less than 50 percent capacity.

Tickets for other shows over the opening weekend are available from the theatre’s website blackburnempire.com