Michael Crawford Will Voice God in A BRITTEN CELEBRATION with the BBC Singers

On 15 June (19:30) star of stage and screen Michael Crawford will join the BBC Singers for the dramatic tale of Noah's Ark, brought to life in the stunning setting of Southwark Cathedral.

Hear legendary entertainer and original cast member Michael Crawford in the speaking role of the Voice of God, plus amateur instrumentalists depicting animals and nature through magical musical effects under conductor Martyn Brabbins, in a performance celebrating the 60th anniversary of Britten's Noye's Fludde in the place where it received its London premiere. See members of Finchley Children's Music Group, founded by Britten especially for this one-act community opera, represent the pairs of animals that joined Noah and his wife in the ark.

Enjoy Britten's quirky cantata Rejoice in the lamb and Sacred and Profane, eight medieval lyrics that explore the theme of mortality and dates from towards the end of Britten's life.

As the original Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera, Michael was awarded the Olivier, Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics' Circle, Drama League and Drama Critics' Circle awards; 1981 Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for Barnum. In recognition of his career achievements, Michael was made an Officer of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II, and in recognition of his services to charity was made a Commander of The British Empire in the New Year Honours of 2014. His films include Hello, Dolly! starring Barbra Streisand, directed by Gene Kelly; A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum; The Knack; The Jokers; How I Won the Warco-starring John Lennon; The Games; Hello and Goodbye; Alices Adventures in Wonderland; Condorman.

The BBC Singers hold a unique position in British musical life. The choir's virtuosity sees it performing everything from Byrd to Birtwistle, Tallis to Takemitsu. Its expertise in contemporary music has brought about creative relationships with some of the most important composers and conductors of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Britten, Maxwell Davies, Poulenc and Judith Bingham.

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