Jason Manford has been announced as host of the Royal Variety Performance 2020.
The Salford comic will present the annual entertainment show from the historic Blackpool Opera House in the Winter Gardens Complex as it returns to the north for the first time in nine years.
The Royal Variety Performance was last held in Blackpool in 2009, and last took place outside of London in 2011 at Salford's Lowry Theatre.
However, due to Covid-19 restrictions, this year's edition will feature a "virtual audience" and the Prince of Wales will record a special video of thanks instead of attending.
The show promises to be an unforgettable evening of exceptional performers, world class British theatre and superb comedy, plus some exciting surprises.
The star-studded line-up this year include Captain Sir Tom Moore who has become a household name after raising more than £30 million for NHS charities in the summer.
He will appear remotely from his home for a performance with singer Michael Ball for their cover of You'll Never Walk Alone which shot to number one earlier this year.
Music will also come from Gary Barlow, Brit Award winner and rising star Celeste, Spice Girl Melanie C and pop favourites Steps.
Sheridan Smith will also reprise her role as Cilla Black for a performance from the spectacular Cilla The Musical and there's even a mesmerising exclusive from Frozen the Musical starring leading lady Samantha Barks.
Magic will come from TV presenter Stephen Mulhern, there will be a performance from West End sensation Marisha Wallace as well as jaw-dropping performance from Kenyan acrobats The Black Blues Brothers.
Also taking to the stage will be Britain's Got Talent 2020 winner Jon Courtenay, plus more comedy from stand-ups Jo Caulfield and Daliso Chaponda.
Jason Manford has said of his latest gig: "After appearing at the Royal Variety Performance three times since 2009, it is an honour and a privilege to be hosting the show this year.
"It's been a hugely difficult year for everybody, so I hope that for a couple of hours on a cold Winter's night in Blackpool, we can take people's minds off things and do what us Brits do best; have a laugh."
The event is staged in aid of the Royal Variety Charity, whose patron is Her Majesty The Queen. The money raised from the show helps those people from the world of entertainment in need of care and assistance.
The Royal Variety Performance will take place on Sunday November 29 and will be screened on ITV in December.
