The National Lottery’s BIG NIGHT OF MUSICALS full lineup revealed
Photo credit: BBC
The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals has announced a host of new shows to the already stellar lineup, as it prepares for its most spectacular celebration of British theatre yet.
Now in its fifth year, the event, hosted by comedian and musical theatre star Jason Manford, will feature spellbinding performances from some of the biggest musicals from across the UK, alongside a range of amazing National Lottery-funded arts organisations.
More than just a night of entertainment, the show highlights the incredible difference National Lottery players make to the performing arts. Over the past 31 years, their support has helped fund over 29,000 theatre projects across the UK, contributing more than £1.4 billion. This means creative initiatives, venue restorations, and programmes that keep theatre accessible for all are made possible because of National Lottery players.
Adding to the already incredible lineup is the multi award-winning Disney’s The Lion King, now in its record breaking 27th year in London, Cameron Mackintosh’s award-winning new production of Lionel Bart’s musical masterpiece Oliver!, smash-hit Annie starring La Voix as Miss Hannigan, Sunny Afternoon, the electrifying story of The Kinks, and the wonderful new West End hit Paddington The Musical.
There will also be some bespoke performances, including a very special Disney medley, and a brilliant number featuring a National Lottery funded choir alongside the musical The Choir of Man.
Shows already announced include the spectacular new production of Miss Saigon, an exclusive performance from Jesus Christ Superstar with Sam Ryder, ahead of him making his West End debut in the role of Jesus, and the legendary musical comedy, Mel Brooks’ The Producers. Also featuring is the extraordinary London production of Wicked ahead of its 20th Anniversary in the West End later in 2026, and I’m Every Woman: The Chaka Khan Musical, the inspiring life story of the multi-platinum selling, global icon, Chaka Khan, played by Alexandra Burke.
Host Jason Manford said: “Every year, Big Night of Musicals gets bigger and better, and 2026 is no exception. We’ve got an incredible mix of iconic shows and brand-new productions coming together for one unforgettable night. It’s a celebration of the magic of theatre and a heartfelt thank you to National Lottery players who make so much of this possible. I can’t wait to share this spectacular evening with everyone at the AO Arena.”
The show will be broadcast in Spring 2026 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. For those who just can’t wait, you can catch Biggest Night of Musicals by the National Lottery on BBC iPlayer, a special episode featuring some of the most memorable performances from the past four years of Big Night of Musicals by the National Lottery.