The annual showcase of international talent, which is in its 77th year, is taking place at London's Lyceum Theatre.

Only a few weeks ago Prince Charles was serenaded by the ex-Spice Girl Geri Halliwell at the Lyceum, when she sang at a special gala for his 50th birthday.

Martine McCutcheon will be making a tribute to 'ole blue eyes

Stars from the world of showbiz who will be performing at this year's Royal Variety Performance include: Maureen Lipman and the cast of Oklahoma!; EastEnders star Martine McCutcheon, who will join Boyzone to sing a selection of songs made famous by Frank Sinatra; and Lily Savage with the cast of Annie, the West End show in which she is starring.

Savage will also be making the audience giggle in the comedy segments of the show, helped by comedian Phil Cool and runner-up in the 1998 Perrier Awards, Peter Kay.

Jane McDonald: treading the boards at the Lyceum

The singing star of the TV docu-soap The Cruise will be making an appearence. Former cabaret singer Jane McDonald has become phenominally successful this year with her debut album reaching number one and a sell-out show at the London Palladium.

Also on the topping the bill are the teenage band B*witched and the ever-popular Barry Manilow.

The Boyzone lead singer, Ronan Keating, is co-hosting the evening with Ulrika Jonsson. The event is to be broadcast on BBC ONE on 20 December.

'Her name was Lola...' Barry will be entertaining all the old showgirls in the audience

The first Royal Variety Performance in 1912 was called the Royal Command performance in the Art of Variety and was watched by King George V.

The annual event is always staged in aid of the Entertainment Artistes Benevolent Fund and over the years a host of talented stars have taken part.