Viewers of the BBC’s Big Night of Musicals on Saturday night (December 27) quickly spotted a tell-tale clue about the performance
Viewers of Big Night of Musicals were left with a pressing query after noticing a glaring detail during the festive BBC programme. On Saturday evening (December 27), Jason Manford presented the Christmas compilation showcasing the finest stage musicals.
The show featured performances from the casts of Matilda, Mary Poppins, and Wicked, alongside numbers from cherished films such as Back to the Future, and tributes to music legends like Tina Turner.
However, just moments into the broadcast, audiences identified a revealing detail suggesting this compilation was actually a repeat from an earlier year. Flocking to X – previously Twitter – numerous viewers observed several audience members donning face masks during the performances.
Sharp-eyed watchers quickly realised this television compilation contained footage recorded during the global pandemic. One viewer questioned: “When was the Tina Turner bit filmed if people are in masks?”
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Another enquired: “Erm… I’ve seen this exact performance before? ? ? Is this a repeat?” A third person verified: “YUP… This entire this was a repeat.”
Although the programme turned out to be a rerun from a previous year, many viewers still cherished the musical spectacular and flocked to social media to heap praise upon it, reports the Express.
One fan wrote: “Loving Big Night of Musicals with @JasonManford, great that the schools and colleges have been shown too, not just established productions. I’m looking forward to next month even more now [musical notes emoji].”
Another viewer concurred: “Really enjoying watching #BigNightOfMusicals on @BBCOne with @JasonManford,” whilst a third added: “That was brilliant @JasonManford [green heart emoji]. Only problem is now I want to book to see Wicked, Matilda, and Mary Poppins again [crying emoji, laughing emoji].”
The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals is poised to make a spectacular comeback for its fifth spectacular edition next month, featuring show-stopping numbers from West End favourites such as Wicked, Miss Saigon, Jesus Christ Superstar and numerous others.
Jason Manford will once more take the helm as presenter, with the extravaganza scheduled for Manchester’s AO Arena on January 26, 2026.
Discussing the forthcoming show, he enthused: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be hosting The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals for the fifth year running.
“The 2026 line-up is phenomenal; some of the biggest shows in the world are coming together for one night only, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it. This event is also a huge thank you to National Lottery players whose support keeps theatre alive and accessible.
“Without their contributions, so many productions, training programmes, and venue restorations simply wouldn’t be possible.”
Those unable to attend the live performance can catch the fifth edition on BBC One and BBC iPlayer during Spring 2026.
Big Night of Musicals is available on BBC iPlayer
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