A NIGHT To Remember is a week away at York Barbican, and with only the last balcony seats to sell, Big Ian Donaghy is cramming 14 musicians into his music room at home for rehearsals to take the show to new heights.

"The addition of the harmony kings Gordon, Robin and Bushy from These Jaded Streets has called on everyone on the roster of talent to give the night a gospel choir feel," says the York singer and event organiser.

"This is an ensemble, a collective: all for one and one for all. It’s so much more than a charity gig with the odd bucket. It’s a labour of love for all involved: a night where the audience are such a big part of the show. We even ask all audience members to bring a raffle prize to create Yorkshire’s biggest raffle to raise thousands for St Leonard’s Hospice and dementia projects in York."

A Night To Remember is truly all inclusive, stresses Big Ian. "Last year we had a 90-year age range, and this year the Hands and Voices singing and signing choir are set to rattle the Barbican foundations," he says.

"We take so much time to craft the show. It’s like preparing a perfect menu. This year the setlist includes songs by Adele, Rag'n'Bone Man, James Taylor, Carole King, Whitney Houston, Justin Timberlake, The Carpenters, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Cher."

Joining ringmaster Big Ian for his fifth Night To Remember on April 13 will be George Hall's house band, plus Chris Helme & Chris Farrell, Heather Findlay, Boss Caine, Jess Steel, Beth McCarthy, Graham Hodge, These Jaded Streets, Simon Snaize, Samantha Holden, Kieran O'Malley on fiddle and sax legend Mick Donnelly.

Further highlights of the night will be Las Vegas Ken playing a skiffle classic with Steve Flanagan; films made with children and people living with dementia in York and an introductory film with a "very well known TV personality", whose identity Big Ian is keeping a secret. Let's just say, he or she may well have graced the Barbican stage in recent weeks.

"You're urged to get your tickets at £15 or £10 from the Barbican before the weekend as a York company has pledged to buy any tickets remaining to give them to people who deserve a night out," says Big Ian.

Tickets are on sale at yorkbarbican.co.uk, on 0844 854 2757 or in person from the Barbican box office. Doors will open at 6.30pm for the 7.30pm start next Thursday.