The Royal Variety Charity's annual Royal Variety Performance 2024, one of the most anticipated showbiz charity events of the year, will showcase illustrious performances at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. Scheduled for broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 8 PM, this year's show promises to be spectacular.
Hosted by the beloved Amanda Holden and comedian Alan Carr, the 2024 performance marks Carr's return to the stage, expressing, "I am completely thrilled to be asked back to host the Royal Variety Performance so soon, what a compliment and an honour!" His co-host, Holden, also shared her enthusiasm, stating, "It truly is such an honour to be hosting the Royal Variety Performance this year. I’m still pinching myself!"
This year's performance took place on Friday, November 22, 2024, with HM The King attending as the Royal Variety Charity Patron for the first time. Due to health concerns, HM The Queen had to withdraw from the event, but The King represented the Royal Family, emphasizing the evening's significance.
The Royal Variety Performance is renowned for featuring highlights from major West End shows, and this year, audiences can expect stunning presentations from various productions. The show includes performances by Sydnie Christmas, the winner of Britain's Got Talent 2024, who will take the stage under the bright lights of the Royal Albert Hall.
Elton John and David Furnish will introduce numbers from The Devil Wears Prada, which is currently making waves at the Dominion Theatre. Famed West End revivals will also feature prominently, including the much-anticipated production of Oliver!, set to debut at the Gielgud Theatre next month, starring Simon Lipkin as Fagin and Shanay Holmes as Nancy, promising audiences even more classic musical magic.
For fans of high-energy theatrics, Andrew Lloyd Webber's Starlight Express will provide electrifying entertainment, showcasing its impressive production at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. Further highlights include Cirque du Soleil's Corteo, which will present its world-exclusive segment, celebrating the company's 40th anniversary.
The English National Ballet will enchant attendees with the classic Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, gearing up for its holiday production of The Nutcracker. To top it all off, the critically acclaimed Mischief Theatre will premiere their latest comedic effort, The Comedy About Spies, which promises to keep the audience laughing.
This year's musical lineup is particularly diverse. Eurovison winner Nemo, Brit Award-winner James Bay, and disco legend Sophie Ellis-Bextor, performing her hits alongside Lorraine Kelly and her Change and Check Choir, will create the perfect mix of classics and contemporary hits. This choir, made up of women who detected breast cancer through Kelly’s campaign, will perform under the leadership of Marti Pellow.
Magic will also feature heavily, with American comedy duo Penn and Teller marking their 50th anniversary by showcasing their incredible act. They will be joined by Stephen Mulhern, whose impressive illusions are sure to mesmerize the audience.
For the comedy enthusiasts, Ellie Taylor, Matt Forde, Scott Bennett, and Larry Dean will provide comedic relief, reflecting on the year's events with their unique perspectives.
The Royal Variety Performance is not only about entertainment but also about charity. The evening’s proceeds will benefit the Royal Variety Charity, which provides support to those within the entertainment industry who need assistance and care. The event has solidified itself as the world’s longest-running entertainment show, continuing its legacy of joy and support.
Recent reviews highlight the event's vibrancy and entertainment value, with Paul Vale from The Stage giving it four stars, calling the experience "electrifying" and praising the variety of acts, including how the Royal Albert Hall sets the stage perfectly for productions like Starlight Express.
With such incredible talent lined up and the charitable cause close to its heart, the Royal Variety Performance 2024 is set to be another unforgettable evening of entertainment and goodwill. Mark your calendars for December 15, and prepare to indulge in the best of British talent, all for a worthy cause.