A SPECTACULAR CELEBRATION OF THE WARTIME AND SWING ERA
FEATURING SPECIAL GUEST LANCE ELLINGTON

This extraordinary collaboration brings together Britain’s beloved wartime-inspired vocal group, The D-Day Darlings, with the internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band, this is a concert event of exceptional scale, quality and emotional impact.
Taking centre stage alongside them is Lance Ellington, star vocalist of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, whose voice has been heard by millions across the world. Renowned for his rich tone, effortless style and commanding presence, Lance has performed with global icons including Michael Jackson, George Michael, Sting, Robbie Williams and Tina Turner, and is widely regarded as one of the UK’s finest swing and soul vocalists.
The D-Day Darlings rose to national prominence as finalists on Britain’s Got Talent, going on to achieve a UK Top 5 album and a BRIT Certified Breakthrough Award. Led by founder Katie Ashby, they have performed at some of the UK’s most prestigious venues, captivating audiences with their moving and uplifting tribute to the wartime generation.
Accompanying them, the BBC Big Band stands among the world’s leading jazz orchestras, with a distinguished history of performances alongside Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, Michael Bublé, Amy Winehouse and Van Morrison. Their powerful sound and precision musicianship have made them a mainstay of BBC broadcasts, the Proms, and sold-out concert halls across the UK and beyond.
Together, this remarkable ensemble delivers a rich and evocative programme of wartime favourites and timeless swing classics. Audiences can expect stirring renditions of We’ll Meet Again, The White Cliffs of Dover and Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy, alongside the unforgettable sounds of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington.
With nine Darlings, eighteen world-class musicians, the outstanding Lance Ellington, and the expert direction of Barry Forgie, this is a high-energy, heartfelt celebration of heritage, harmony and the enduring power of music.
World-class musicians… a brilliant musical force.
The Telegraph
Sheer Brilliance.
The Guardian
