REVEALED: Britain’s largest-ever stage to host an array of stars in front of Windsor Castle at the highly anticipated Coronation Concert – including Katy Perry, Take That and Lionel Richie
Covered by a canopy and bathed in golden light with Windsor Castle as a backdrop, the stage for the Coronation Concert becomes truly magnificent.
Designed in the shape of the Union Flag, these artist’s impressions also show how it will be illuminated in red, white and blue, with the top turning into a giant screen to “symbolize the crown that protects the nation.”
The epic installation, which is 100 meters wide, is sure to impress the 20,000 members of the public who are expected to attend the musical extravaganza next Sunday to celebrate the coronation of King Charles and Queen consort Camilla.
Along with the steps of the parapet in the centre, the BBC said the stage will create multiple levels for a 74-piece classical ensemble – formed from the Countess of Wessex’s String Orchestra and the woodwind, brass and percussion sections of the Bands of the Household Division.
Four catwalks extending outwards allow the audience to see the acts up close. At the back of the stage is the orchestra in front of the castle.
The BBC said the stage will create multiple levels for a 74-piece classical ensemble to accompany musical acts throughout the evening
The show will be broadcast live from the grounds of Windsor Castle on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds on Sunday 7 May from 8pm.
Hosted by Paddington and Downton Abbey star Hugh Bonneville, the concert will feature Hollywood actor Tom Cruise, Dynasty actress Dame Joan Collins, adventurer Bear Grylls and singer Sir Tom Jones via video message.
Pre-recorded sketches reveal little-known facts about the King and will also feature Winnie-the-Pooh, echoing the much-loved moment Paddington Bear had tea with the Queen on her Platinum Jubilee celebration.
Take That, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie will be among the performers, alongside Paloma Faith, Olly Murs, rock guitarist Steve Winwood and Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls.
Designed in the shape of the Union Flag, these artist’s impressions also show how it will be illuminated in red, white and blue
Take That, Katy Perry (left) and Lionel Richie will be among the performers and Tom Cruise will appear via video link
Classical acts including Andrea Bocelli, Welsh bass-baritone Sir Bryn Terfel and Chinese pianist Lang Lang will also perform.
The Royal Ballet, the Royal Opera, the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Colleges of Music and Art come together for the first time to create a one-off performance featuring Sex Education and Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa and Olivier Award nominee Mei Mac .
The coronation concert will be broadcast live on the BBC on Sunday 7 May from 8 p.m.