The D-Day Darlings & The BBC Big Band
Sunday 8th February 2026 – 6:00 PM Portsmouth Guildhall
Britain’s best-loved wartime vocal group, The D-Day Darlings, will reunite with the legendary 18-piece BBC Big Band under the musical direction of Barry Forgie, for an unforgettable evening of big band brilliance marking the Portsmouth 100 celebrations.
Following their acclaimed 2024 collaboration — a BBC Radio 2 broadcast hosted by Vernon Kay commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day — this spectacular concert promises a rousing celebration of the wartime and swing era, featuring beloved classics including ‘We’ll Meet Again’, ‘The White Cliffs of Dover’, and ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’.
Finalists on Britain’s Got Talent in 2018, The D-Day Darlings have become the nation’s foremost wartime-inspired vocal group, achieving two Top 5 albums, a BRIT Certified Breakthrough Award, and performances at leading venues including the Royal Albert Hall, London Palladium, and Birmingham Symphony Hall.
The BBC Big Band is recognised globally as one of the Finest jazz orchestras in the world, renowned for its virtuosity and rich musical heritage. With collaborations spanning Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, Michael Bublé , and Van Morrison, the ensemble has graced iconic stages such as Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Cadogan Hall, and the BBC Proms.
Joining the line-up is acclaimed guest vocalist Randolph Matthews – an award-winning artist celebrated for his unique fusion of jazz, soul, blues, and African rhythm. Renowned for his magnetic stage presence and exceptional vocal artistry, Randolph has performed at world-class venues including the Barbican, Royal Festival Hall, Ronnie Scott’s, and Glastonbury. He now brings his soulful energy and dynamic Vlair to timeless swing classics from Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and more.
“World-class musicians… a brilliant musical force.” – The Telegraph
“Sheer brilliance.” – The Guardian
Event Details
Sunday 8 February 2026 6:00 PM
Portsmouth Guildhall Tickets: https://www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/whats-on/event/the-d-day-darlings-bbcbigband/
Box Office: boxoffice@portsmouthguildhall.org.uk / 02393 870200