Amateurs Shine Bright with Les Mis at the Royal Variety Performance 2025
One of the most heartwarming moments of the Royal Variety Performance 2025 came not just from famous West End stars, but from everyday performers who never expected to stand on one of the world’s most iconic stages. This year’s show turned into something truly special as amateur singers from across the UK joined the cast of Les Misérables to celebrate the musical’s 40th anniversary at the Royal Albert Hall.
What made this moment so powerful was the journey behind it. Earlier in the year, performance rights for Les Misérables were released to amateur dramatic groups for the very first time. That decision, made by producer Cameron Mackintosh as part of a nationwide project, opened the door for community theatre companies in cities like Leeds, Belfast, Glasgow, and Liverpool. Hundreds auditioned, rehearsals were intense, and full productions were staged with live orchestras and packed theatres. For many involved, it already felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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But the story didn’t end there. Selected performers from those amateur productions were later invited to take part in the Royal Variety Performance. For singers like Luke Wilby and Ryan Brown from Leeds, and several amateur performers from Northern Ireland, the invitation came as a complete surprise. What was expected to be a moment in the chorus turned into something much bigger, as some were chosen to sing alongside theatre legends like Michael Ball, Matt Lucas, and Bradley Jaden.
Standing on the Royal Albert Hall stage, facing the Royal Family, was described as surreal. Nerves were felt, disbelief was shared, and for a split second, some admitted they nearly forgot to sing at all. Yet once the music began, those nerves were replaced by something else entirely. The voices of more than 400 performers came together for Les Misérables’ unforgettable “One Day More,” creating a moment that felt both intimate and enormous at the same time.
What stood out most was how warmly the professionals welcomed the amateurs. Advice was quietly offered, encouragement was given freely, and the sense of hierarchy simply disappeared. It was made clear that this performance wasn’t about status, but about a shared love of theatre. Teachers, barristers, lecturers, and choir singers stood shoulder to shoulder with West End icons, proving that passion and dedication can open extraordinary doors.
In the end, the Royal Variety Performance 2025 became more than a showcase of talent. It became a celebration of community, opportunity, and the idea that incredible things can happen when ordinary people are given the chance to step into extraordinary moments.
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