World class, large scale music performances were interwoven with intimate, heart-breaking letters and diary entries, uniquely underscored by live orchestration from the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. These were enhanced by carefully selected archive footage, much of which was being seen on television for the first time.

A sell-out 5000 strong audience included former military servicemen, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and, importantly, six Normandy Veterans aged from 98-104.  The team were determined that the story was not presented as a history lesson but a profile of remarkable people. The concert featured contemporary music with wartime motifs. Epic classics were juxtaposed by contemporary and respectful interpretations. John Owen-Jones’ rendition of “Bring Him Home,” following a letter performed by Toby Jones, written by an army officer to the mother of a deceased soldier. Emile Sandé, whose grandfather served in the British Army, debuted her single “Roots” – a powerful ballad which highlighted the importance of connecting to previous generations.

Letters from the period were delivered by actors including Jason Manford, Sacha Dhawan, Lucy Boyton, Tamsin Greig and Ben Lamb. Presenter, Davina McCall spoke with two D-Day veterans. 103-year-old Donald Howkins compelling statement brought tears to the eyes of the audience: “When I think about it, all the heroes resting overseas… it’s very touching.” All the veterans received a standing ovation.

The line between ceremony, reflection, and an entertainment special is difficult to tread, but we believe the programme achieved this, delivering a powerful message and a unique offering to over 1.5 million ITV viewers.