Elaine Paige brought the spirit of Cher to BBC Radio 2 listeners this week with a dedicated birthday celebration.
The Olivier-winning actress hosted the May 17, 2026, episode of her program Elaine Paige on Sunday, focusing on the iconic performer's upcoming 80th birthday.
Paige expressed her enthusiasm ahead of the broadcast through social media.
Today on #EPOS I'll be turning back time to celebrate @cher's big birthday! Also baking (Half Bread!?), & Jordan Luke Gage's new musical, Redcliffe.
The quote comes from Elaine Paige, host of the show on BBC Radio 2.
Listeners enjoyed a selection of Cher's timeless tracks alongside discussions of the star's influence on popular culture and her enduring appeal.
A baking segment added a fun twist, with references to bread making that lightened the mood of the program and engaged the audience in a unique way.
Paige also spotlighted Jordan Luke Gage's new musical Redcliffe, giving audiences an early look at the project and its potential for the stage.
The inclusion of this new work underscored the show's commitment to showcasing fresh theatrical talent.
Broadway.com promoted the episode to its readers, allowing wider access to the BBC Radio 2 content for international theatre fans.
Cher celebrates her 80th birthday on May 20, 2026, inspiring tributes like this one from fellow entertainers in the industry.
The program regularly mixes music, personal insights, and updates from theatre and film to engage its audience every Sunday afternoon.
Fans appreciated the blend of nostalgia and new discoveries offered in this special edition.
Elaine Paige's career in musical theatre includes memorable roles that have earned her critical acclaim and awards over many years.
Her radio show extends that passion by sharing music with a national audience on BBC Radio 2.
This week's focus on Cher highlighted the connections between different eras of performance art and the lasting impact of legendary figures.
The new musical Redcliffe represents the kind of innovative work that keeps the theatre vibrant and evolving in the current landscape.
Jordan Luke Gage continues to contribute to the musical landscape through his creative endeavors in writing and performing.
Overall, the broadcast provided an enjoyable way for listeners to engage with both established stars and rising talents in entertainment today.
