It was a spectacular occasion for a special birthday which included Royalty, a stellar line up of Welsh A-listers, and 400 of our own and choristers in fine voice at Cardiff’s St David’s Hall.
A big 80th birthday thank you from Tenovus Cancer Care to everyone who made The Welsh Variety Extravaganza an incredible celebration while also helping to raise vital funds for all people affected by cancer.
The dazzling evening of entertainment began with the arrival of our patron, HRH The Princess Royal, who was greeted by Chief Executive Judi Rhys MBE and Chair Professor Malcolm Mason OBE.
HRH was escorted to the VIP area to meet long-service staff members, dedicated volunteers, and inspirational cancer champions.
Last in the line-up was global Welsh artist Nathan Wyburn who unveiled a portrait of HRH collaged together using images of her love of horses and some beautiful silhouettes.
Showtime and the evening started with an energetic performance from 100 Debbie Chapman Dancers before the co-hosts took to the stage. Amy Dowden stepped out of the Strictly ballroom, pairing up with funny man Rob Woodward to an almost sell out audience.
The Princess Royal made her address, officially opening the show, before being presented with a posy of flowers by one of the charity’s youngest fundraisers – four-year-old Sofia Barnett.
The audience were then in for a treat with a variety acts to suit all tastes, including Grammy award winning Amy Wadge, musical theatre’s Sophie Evans, and star of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Victoria Scone.
Amy Dowden danced a lively jive and romantic Waltz with husband Ben Jones.
Côr Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf accompanied Dafydd Iwan to sing iconic Welsh anthem – Yma o Hyd. And male voice choir Only Men Aloud performed Calon Lan, and other popular Welsh tunes in the language of heaven.
A few tears were shed by audience members when 400 of our Sing with Us choristers belted out their signature tunes – including Sing for Life which was written especially for us by one our very first choir leaders Catrin Southall and her partner James Kennedy.
Chief Executive Judi Rhys, MBE, said:
