The stage is set for one of the biggest nights in musical theatre TV!
Ahead of the BBC broadcast this Saturday, 28 March, we have a first look at the production photos from The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals 2026.
Captured at the AO Arena in Manchester, these fabulous photos showcase the scale of the 90-minute spectacular, featuring a star-studded line-up of West End favourites and world-exclusive performances.
Check our Ultimate Viewing Guide for Big Night of Musicals here.
Gallery: Big Night of Musicals 2026
Photos by BBC/TBI Media/Scott Garfitt
Highlights from the big night
The newly released photos offer a glimpse into some of the most anticipated moments of this year’s Big Night of Musicals BBC broadcast, including:
- Sam Ryder’s West End Debut: The Eurovision sensation takes on the iconic role of Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar, performing a soaring rendition of “Gethsemane” for the first time – in a real Big Night of Musicals exclusive.
- Paddington: The first look at Paddington The Musical since the show scored 11 Olivier Award nominations earlier this month. The Big Night of Musicals features break-out star of the show Victoria Hamilton Barritt singing Paddington The Musical showstopper ‘Pretty Little Dead Things’.
- The Chaka Khan Finale: Alexandra Burke closing the show with a high-octane medley from the new musical I’m Every Woman.
- Disney Magic: A big ensemble celebration of Alan Menken’s greatest hits, featuring cast members from The Lion King and Aladdin.
Book tickets for the shows featured in Big Night of Musicals.
Watch the Performances Live
The concert will be broadcast on BBC One at 7.45pm this Saturday, 28 March 2026. If you miss the live broadcast, you can catch the full 90-minute show on BBC iPlayer immediately after.
Video Highlights (Coming Soon)
Check back here on Sunday 29 March for official video highlights and individual performance clips as they are released.
Plan Your Next Theatre Trip
Inspired by the photos? Many of the shows featured at the AO Arena are currently playing in the West End or on major UK tours.
- The World Premiere: Paddington The Musical! Be among the first to see the beloved bear’s musical debut at the Savoy Theatre. Check Paddington ticket availability and book here
- Love Wicked? The witches are flying at the Apollo Victoria. Book Wicked Tickets
- Hooked on Oliver!? See the new production at the Gielgud Theatre. Check Oliver! Availability
- Fan of The Producers? Catch the comedy hit at the Garrick Theatre. Book The Producers Tickets
Browse all West End Musicals currently playing in London
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