To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, The City Varieties Music Hall presents a tribute to the legendary stars who kept us smiling through the dark days of World War II. Spirit of the Blitz recaptures the defiant optimism of war-torn Britain, remembering the heroes of that treasured generation through the songs that tell their stories; songs like Don’t Sit Under The Apple Tree, Bless ‘Em All, Leaning On A Lamp-Post, and of course, We’ll Meet Again.

VE Day is commemorated annually throughout Europe, but this year is deemed especially important as the last big anniversary where a significant number of veterans will remain to celebrate the coming of peace and to honour their fallen comrades. Andy Eastwood, the show’s producer, who also portrays morale-boosting entertainer George Formby, describes it as a moving experience:

Also performing are singer Maggie O’Hara, who pays tribute to Dame Vera Lynn and Anne Shelton, and Steve Barclay, recreating the comedy of Max Miller and his contemporaries.

Spirit Of The Blitz is at the City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds on Sunday 4 May at 2.30pm. Tickets can be booked online at leedsheritagetheatres.com or via the Box Office on 0113 243 0808.