Exploring the real effects of Covid on UK theatre, with a special 3hr show and a full day of activity. Including profiles of people and live music from shows across the West End.

1x 3hr, by TBI Media, first aired 23rd September 2020

In 2018, UK theatres sold in excess of 34 million tickets generating £1.28 billion in revenue. Now though, the curtain is down, box offices are closed and theatres are empty. This is a serious situation which will have far-reaching effects on UK arts.

This project will combine a journalistic approach with an ambitious entertainment format to give this sector a voice, through a series of features and a ground-breaking three hour programme.

Uniquely recorded across one day at the London Palladium, Magic With The Musicals will feature sensitive profiles of the people on and off the stage across many shows and productions, to give a compelling view of their roles. While interviews are recorded backstage, a fully live 10-piece band will be on stage at the theatre, recording exclusive and special live performances throughout the day, by some of the industry’s biggest stars, together with leading cast members from current West End shows.

Listeners will hear from leading creatives, producers, composers and artists, from across the UK, and the live band will comprise world-class musicians who are currently facing financial hardship. This unique event will show support and solidarity, allowing commercial radio to bring much-needed hope to practitioners and audiences alike.