Vernon Kay takes BBC Radio 2's Piano Room to Manchester

BBC Radio 2's much-loved Piano Room is heading on tour for the first time with a series of events planned to take place in Manchester.

Hosted by Vernon Kay, stars headlining include Jamie Cullum, David Gray and Katie Melua, who will take to the stage in September.

The acts will be performing with the BBC concert orchestra at Manchester's Opera House theatre.

More acts will be announced for three-night stint, SJM Concerts said.

BBC Radio 2's Piano Room Month has been taking place throughout February and has featured artists including Paloma Faith, Elbow, Texas and Rick Astley who have performed at the Maida Vale Studios with the BBC's concert orchestra.

Kay, who presents mid-mornings on BBC Radio 2, said he "can't wait to take the series out on the road for the very first time".

He added: "Having such a wide variety of performances by so many different artists in Radio 2's Piano Room is one of the highlights of presenting mid-mornings."

The Bolton-native, who last year raised more than £5m for Children in Need by completing an ultra-marathon, said the line-up was "incredible" and was taking place in "such a special venue".

Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, said: "Since its launch in 2022, Piano Room Month has delighted audiences - bringing them unique versions of songs from their favourite artists on Radio 2, BBC Sounds and BBC iPlayer.

"It's such a joy to now be able to invite our listeners to immerse themselves in the live experience with what I know will be three incredible shows in Manchester."

Award-winning jazz musician Jamie Cullum will headline the first of the series on 12 September, followed by Ivor Novello-winning David Gray on 13 September, while singer-songwriter and musician Katie Melua finishes the 2024 series on 14 September.

Tickets for the events go on sale on Friday.

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