NATIONAL LOTTERY’S BIG NIGHT OF MUSICALS Returns to BBC One

We all have that one friend who claims to know everything there is about musicals—the type who can belt out Defying Gravity at a moment’s notice or debate the nuances of All That Jazz until closing time. Yet even the keenest theatre aficionado can get overwhelmed by the sheer array of productions bustling across the UK. NATIONAL LOTTERY’S BIG NIGHT OF MUSICALS solves this conundrum by compressing a year’s worth of West End and touring highlights into one glorious spectacle. That alone is reason enough to tune in.

But another alluring factor is the atmosphere. Imagine thousands of musical theatre devotees gathered under one roof, cheering on legends and celebrating newcomers alike. The synergy is palpable. Jason Manford, who continues his hosting duties for a second year, isn’t merely an entertaining compère; he’s a genuine theatre enthusiast with a gift for drawing out heartfelt anecdotes from performers. Add to that the fact that you can watch from the comfort of your own home—no queueing in cold winter air required—and it’s practically an invitation you can’t refuse.

Moreover, if numbers impress you, consider this: over 20,000 theatre-related projects have benefited from National Lottery support in the last 30 years to the tune of £1.3 billion. That’s a staggering figure, underscoring the tangible influence these funds have had on everything from fostering new writing to preserving historic venues. So, as you settle down to watch the show, remember that the unstoppable grandeur you see on stage is more than just razzle-dazzle. It represents three decades of ongoing community and commercial investment in the magic of live performance.

The Glittering Line-Up

This year’s line-up reads like a theatre-lover’s dream. One of the event’s standouts is a performance from CALAMITY JANE starring Carrie Hope Fletcher, a performer who’s rapidly become a household name thanks to her roles in everything from Les Misérables to Heathers. For those eager to see the latest musical phenomena, the new production of DEAR EVAN HANSEN has also staked a claim on the night, bringing that heart-tugging narrative straight to the stage in Manchester.

Then there’s the unstoppable, rock-driven juggernaut that is BAT OUT OF HELL THE MUSICAL, continuing to thrill audiences on tour. Anyone who’s witnessed the show’s powerful ballads, derived from the late Jim Steinman’s iconic catalogue, can tell you that it’s the kind of production that hits you right in the gut—both emotionally and sonically. Also keep an eye out for HERE AND NOW – THE OFFICIAL STEPS MUSICAL, a project generating considerable buzz for its pop-laden reinterpretation of the beloved band’s hits. If that’s not enough variety for one night, Georgina Castle from MEAN GIRLS will make an appearance, while fans of animation-meets-stage can relish the first official glimpse of Disney’s HERCULES.

Now, for something especially intriguing: Marisha Wallace steps into the shoes of Sally Bowles in CABARET. While Bowles is a character that’s undergone numerous interpretations over the decades, Wallace’s soulful voice and presence could add an enticing new layer to an already iconic role. Throw in the touring ensembles of CHICAGO and MARY POPPINS for some toe-tapping flair, and you’ve got an evening primed for show-stopping moments. Not to be overlooked is the West End’s TITANIQUE—featuring Layton Williams—which offers a zany, musical retelling of that unsinkable romance. If you’re someone who revels in comedic reinterpretations of well-known stories, TITANIQUE might just be your cup of tea.

Surprising Cameos and Collaborations

One of the lesser-known highlights is the performance by Michael Ball alongside the Our Dementia Choir—a partnership that underscores how theatre and community projects can come together to create something profoundly moving. It’s a small reminder that musicals aren’t just about polished dance numbers; they can be a force of healing and unity. Meanwhile, Daniel Mays joins forces with Jason Manford for a snippet from SOMETHING ROTTEN!, a show known for its playful wit and comedic jabs at Shakespearean tropes. It’s exactly the kind of off-kilter cameo that can spark joy in an already vibrant lineup.

Speaking of synergy, the broadcast will also showcase National Lottery-funded performance groups. Typically, these segments highlight the enormous range of local talent thriving across the UK—young choirs, community theatre troupes, or dance ensembles that might not otherwise find themselves on a national broadcast. It’s in these smaller grassroots projects that the spirit of lottery funding truly comes to life, demonstrating how crucial investments help budding performers find their footing.

The Impact of National Lottery Support

By now, we’re all somewhat aware that the National Lottery has played a role in supporting everything from community initiatives to sports programmes. But perhaps less well publicised is its substantial contribution to theatre and the performing arts. Over the past three decades, £1.3 billion has been channelled into more than 20,000 theatre-related projects, boosting everything from large-scale West End refurbishments to local drama clubs. This commitment doesn’t just sustain star-studded shows; it invigorates the broader ecosystem—think youth theatre camps, scriptwriting competitions, or the modernisation of underfunded stages.

The refurbishment of historic venues is another sphere where National Lottery funds have made a conspicuous difference. Many theatres—some centuries old—have fragile structures requiring constant love and attention. Without such financial support, an alarming number of these iconic sites might have fallen into disrepair or vanished altogether. So, when the AO Arena resounds with the cheers of thousands of fans come showtime, it’s symbolic of a far bigger narrative: a cultural tradition carefully tended and updated for new generations.

From Small Acorns

In all the showbiz glitz, it’s easy to overlook the production’s behind-the-scenes commitments, one of which involves forging inclusive experiences for diverse audiences. While musicals can be an expensive night out, the National Lottery’s events often incorporate strategies to broaden accessibility—think sign-interpreted or captioned performances, discounted tickets for low-income patrons, or partnerships that bring children’s drama groups into contact with industry professionals. Although the specifics vary year by year, it’s worth noting that inclusivity is an enduring thread running through these initiatives. So, the next time you see a child on stage in a local pantomime who just happens to have hearing aids, or a youth theatre production that merges sign language with dance, remember that such inclusivity can spring from seeds planted by events like NATIONAL LOTTERY’S BIG NIGHT OF MUSICALS.

The Countdown to a Must-See Broadcast

If you’re counting down the days to 22 March, rest assured that you’re not alone. The promise of an all-singing, all-dancing musical medley on BBC One at 18.50 is enough to make even the most jaded theatre critic perk up. For those lucky enough to have been at the AO Arena in person, the evening was a live, visceral confirmation that musicals remain one of the most cherished forms of storytelling in Britain. For the rest of us, the broadcast is a front-row seat—complete with the warmth of our sofa cushions.

In a year that’s seen its fair share of challenges for the arts sector, including pandemic fallout and economic pressures, there’s solace in knowing that a cultural mainstay like the National Lottery continues to champion theatre. The synergy between established stars, brand-new talents, and community ensembles reminds us that theatre is far more than box office tallies; it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and shared humanity.

A Curtain Call with Resonance

Will NATIONAL LOTTERY’S BIG NIGHT OF MUSICALS become a permanent fixture in the theatre calendar? With a legacy stretching four years and counting, signs point to yes. But even if it didn’t, this year’s edition has already etched its mark with thrilling performances, poignant collaborations, and a timely reminder of how lottery funding can nurture an entire creative ecosystem. As you settle in to watch, consider the layers of artistry, community spirit, and commitment that go into making each moment on screen.

So, grab your popcorn, warm up your vocal cords (just in case the mood strikes), and prepare to be wowed by an array of musicals you may already love or might just fall head-over-heels for. Because if there’s one thing that unites us, it’s the stirring power of a good story told through song. And in these uncertain times, a shared performance that leaves us humming a show tune well after the credits roll might be exactly what we need to remember that life, much like theatre, is an ensemble piece where everyone deserves a chance in the spotlight.