Watch The Queen's Golden Jubilee Concert: Party At The Palace

On 3 June 2002, the United Kingdom celebrated the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II who had reigned as the monarch for 50 years. One of the headline events of the celebrations was the Party at the Palace - a concert held in the gardens of Buckingham Palace. The Queen's Golden Jubilee Concert features some of the biggest names in music as they take to the stage to pay tribute to the Queen and commemorate her Golden Jubilee.

The show is a star-studded affair, with performances from some of the most iconic musicians of the past few decades. The line-up includes rock legends Sir Paul McCartney, Brian May and Roger Taylor of Queen, and Eric Clapton, as well as contemporary artists like Kylie Minogue, Tom Jones, and Will Young. Classical music buffs will be delighted to see legendary conductor Sir George Martin, acclaimed soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, and renowned tenor Sir Roberto Alagna. The concert also features performances from Dame Shirley Bassey and Cliff Richard, who were both born in the same year as the Queen.

The concert is presented by the late television personality and presenter of the show Countdown, Richard Whiteley, and actress Jamie Theakston. Theatrical performances are led by Dame Judi Dench, with appearances from Sir Ian McKellen, and the Royal Family, who are seen watching and enjoying the performances from the Royal Box.

One of the most significant parts of the show is the opening sequence, which saw Sir Paul McCartney perform the Beatles classic "All You Need Is Love." As the song reaches its finale, the stage fills with the audience, including members of the British public, holding up signs that spell out "ER II" for Elizabeth Regina (Queen Elizabeth). The effect is impressive, and the sequence is a fitting tribute to the Queen's lasting impact on British culture.

Throughout the show, the performers give their take on some of the most famous songs in British history. Eric Clapton performs a heartfelt rendition of "Layla," while Tom Jones brings the house down with "It's Not Unusual." There are also several standout moments, such as Brian May and Roger Taylor's explosive take on the Queen classic "We Will Rock You", followed by "We Are the Champions," which inspires the audience to sing and dance along.

Another highlight is a performance by the band Blue, who perform a medley of classic songs while being hoisted high up above the crowds. The band announces that they are performing for the Queen's guards, standing in formation below them in the Palace grounds, and the effect is as admirable as the performance.

The classical segment of the show is a masterful tribute to the Queen. Sir George Martin conducts a performance of the Beatles tune "Yesterday" played by the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, and it's one of the most touching moments of the show.

The final segment is the most impressive, with Paul McCartney returning to the stage to lead the star-studded ensemble in an energetic and goosebump-inducing interpretation of "God Save the Queen." The performance is accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display, which lights up London and signalled the end of the Jubilee weekend.

Overall, The Queen's Golden Jubilee Concert: Party At The Palace is a fitting tribute to the enduring popularity of the British monarchy, showcasing some of the most exceptional talents from the British music industry. The show highlights the significant role played by the Queen in British culture and history while also celebrating the best of modern British talent. This concert is an incredible event that captures the spirit of British culture, and it's a must-watch for anyone who loves music, history, and spectacle.