Jason Manford to host The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals

Jason Manford is to present ‘The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals’.

The 41-year-old comedian is excited to step back into his presenting role at the AO Arena Manchester to host yet another spectacular evening, which will celebrate the biggest shows from the world of theatre.

He said: "I’m thrilled to be back hosting 'The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals' for another year.

"It was incredible to see so many amazing shows under one roof last year, and with 13 completely different shows set to perform this year, it’s guaranteed to be another cracker of a night!”

The musical extravaganza - which celebrates the support National Lottery players have given to arts projects, including the 2,000 theatres which were supported through the recent COVID crisis - is set to take place on Monday 27 February.

A 90-minute special will air on BBC One as well as on BBC Radio 2, which will feature exclusive backstage access and interviews with the stars.

The event will include West End musical shows such as ‘We Will Rock You The Musical’, ‘Wicked’, The Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘Matilda The Musical’, Disney’s 'Newsies', and ‘Shrek the Musical UK’.

Suzy Klein, Head of Arts and Classical Music TV, said: "Following on from the huge success of the first musicals celebration last year, I’m delighted the BBC is able to bring another great night showcasing the very best of performance arts and British theatre, straight to viewers in the comfort of their own homes."

Helen Thomas, Head of BBC Radio 2, added: “The Radio 2 listeners love musicals and the stars who light up the stage with their amazing performances, so we’re delighted to be broadcasting Big Night Of Musicals again this year and going behind the scenes to bring all the gossip from backstage!”