BBC Proms viewers were left saying the same thing minutes into a special Disney-themed concert aired this weekend, as one star was left feeling emotional. On Saturday night (September 5), Nick Mohammed presented the event from the Royal Albert Hall, with Sarah Hicks conducting the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra in a programme showcasing Alan Menken's music from various Disney films.
Disney classics performed at Royal Albert Hall
The American composer's acclaimed catalogue of shows, songs, and scores includes many of Disney's greatest hits. The orchestra was joined by singers Marisha Wallace, Lucie Jones and other West End stars, as well as performers from the National Youth Music Theatre.
To celebrate Menken's work, an audience of all ages was treated to songs from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Enchanted, and Tangled. During the concert, host Nick caught up with singers Lucie Jones and Sam Oladeinde.
Lucie Jones shares emotional moment
"Wow. What a rip-roaring ride of a first half, showcasing the complete versatility of Alan Menken as a composer - back-to-back bangers that are woven into our cultural fabric," Nick said, shortly before introducing Lucie and Sam to his studio.
Lucie, who recently welcomed her first child, Elowen, then shared how emotional she was feeling. She said: "I'm sobbing. I've just had a baby, I'm standing backstage sobbing."
Lucie went on: "I swear to god, I am an emotional wreck anyway and they brought me here to sing Disney songs with this incredible crowd. It really is amazing."
Viewers share reactions online
BBC viewers were equally moved by the evening, with many sharing their thoughts on X. One person wrote: "Ohh a Disney themed bbc proms - yes please! I know all these."
Another added: "Watching it now, but behind, as I was out & recorded it. I just watched [Marisha Wallace] NAIL the hell out of Colours of the Wind, QUEEN. I was looking forward to this proms episode all week. Glad I recorded it as will be keeping it for months every time I need a boost & from #Disney songs."
A third said: "This Disney Proms is quite good, always something for everyone every year." Someone else echoed the sentiment, saying: "Celebration of Alan Menken, my dream dinner party guest, on the BBC Proms!"
Previous themed Proms concert
It isn't the first themed Proms, as there was recently a special concert dedicated to James Bond. The Royal Albert Hall played host to the beloved and instantly recognisable theme tunes from the Bond franchise, alongside memorable soundtracks from other spy films.
Viewers were particularly delighted to see Scottish singer Lulu take to the stage to perform her own James Bond number, The Man with the Golden Gun. Fans flocked to social media to share their excitement, as Lulu was seen visibly tearing up after her performance.
Celebrating Disney at the Proms: The Music of Menken is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
