Calling all West End aficionados! BBC One is set to deliver a concentrated dose of musical theatre magic this Saturday with “Big Night of Musicals by the National Lottery.” Filmed at Manchester’s AO Arena in front of a 12,000-strong audience, the special features performances from ten top UK touring and West End productions.
With Jason Manford at the helm, expect a night of showstoppers and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of musical theatre. Special guests Michael Ball, Marisha Wallace, and Billy Porter add extra sparkle to an already dazzling lineup. Highlights include Wallace belting out “Maybe This Time” from “Cabaret,” Layton Williams strutting his stuff in “Titanique,” and a heartwarming collaboration between Michael Ball and Vicky McClure’s Our Dementia Choir.
The special also features performances from “Chicago,” “Mary Poppins,” “Mean Girls,” a UK TV first from Disney’s “Hercules,” excerpts from “Here and Now: the Steps Musical,” “Jim Steinman’s Bat Out of Hell,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” and “Strictly’s” Johannes Radebe’s musical theatre debut in “Kinky Boots.” Plus, look out for appearances by Billy Porter, Ruthie Henshall, Faye Tozer, and Carrie Hope Fletcher performing from “Calamity Jane.” It’s a veritable buffet of musical theatre goodness.
“Big Night of Musicals” airs Saturday, March 22 at 6:50 PM on BBC One.
