Music icon Cher has been announced to headline this year’s Royal Variety Performance.
The annual event, which promises a line-up of “international stars, world class theatre, sensational singers and hilarious comedy,” will take place at London’s Royal Albert Hall in the presence of members of the Royal Family, with actor and presenter Bradley Walsh as host.Due to air on ITV in December, US superstar Cher, 77, will perform a festive number from her new album, Christmas.An exclusive 100th anniversary celebration from Disney Theatrical has also been teased, showcasing a medley featuring performances from the casts of The Lion King,Frozen, Aladdin, Hercules and Beauty & The Beast.
McFly, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary, will be performing, as will Rick Astley, Zara Larsson, Paloma Faith performing her latest single and Hannah Waddingham, who will be accompanied by the ENO chorus.
There will also be a beautiful collaboration from the outstanding world class pianist Lang Lang who will be joined by 14-year-old Lucy, the winner of Channel 4’s The Piano. As well as music from Melanie C who will be performing a very special tribute to theatre producer Bill Kenwright.
London's West End will be well represented in the form of the casts from new musical The Little Big Things and the revival of George Gershwin's Crazy For You.
Also taking to the stage will be award winning and vocal powerhouse Beverley Knight with the cast of Sister Act, the thrilling Argentinian dancing troupe Malevo, a magical performance from Derren Brown’s West End creation Unbelievable, and Simon Cowell will introduce Britain’s Got Talent winner comedian Viggo Venn.
Plus, there will be world class stand-up from Tom Allen, Rosie Jones, Ellie Taylor and Simon Brodkin.
The National Anthem will be led by The Fanfare Trumpeters of The Band of the Welsh Guards and the National Youth Choir.
Speaking about his involvement in a press release, The Chase host Walsh said: “I am so excited to be presenting this year's show. It’s been 30 years this year since I first performed at The Royal Variety Performance, so what an absolute honour to be hosting.”
He added: “The line-up is incredible and I can’t wait for you all to see what I have in store.”
The event is staged in aid of the Royal Variety Charity. All monies raised from the show helps those people from the world of entertainment in need of care and assistance.
