The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals is returning to our screens this weekend. Filmed in Manchester’s AO Arena, the event featured performers from a range of West End and touring productions, as well as special guests and surprises from the world of musical theatre, which I was able to experience first-hand having been in the audience for this annual spectacle!
Taking place each year, The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals is a televised event dedicated to showcasing the best of musical theatre in the United Kingdom. Featuring performances from a range of shows, it is a night dedicated to celebrating both the impact of National Lottery funding in the theatrical arts, but also to enticing audiences into seeing new shows they may not have considered before, by giving a short introduction to what each musical is like. Hosted by Jason Manford, who has recently been playing the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz, this year’s line-up features returning favourites such as Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera and Hamilton, as well as new and revived performances including Guys & Dolls, A Chorus Line and Hadestown.
The evening also has surprises for a very special audience member, appearances from stars of the stage discussing their recent work, as well as features of more musicals to consider on top of those performing on the night.
Without discussing spoilers, The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals was a diverse spectacle when viewed live and promises to be an interesting programme when televised this weekend. If you’re debating what shows you might want to go and see next, it’s definitely worth tuning in for the talents of the stage in one place to help you make your decision, or even just for a fun-filled evening of entertainment!
The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals was filmed at the AO Arena in Manchester on January 22nd. The show will be televised on BBC1 on Saturday January 27th at 7:50pm
