The annual program features performances from the casts of Singin' in the Rain (with Adam Cooper) and The Phantom of the Opera (with Nicole Scherzinger performing "The Phantom of the Opera" with four Phantoms, Simon Bowman, Earl Carpenter, John Owen Jones and Ramin Karimloo).

The broadcast also includes performances from Base Berlin, Tony Bennett, The Boy with Tape on His Face, Greg Davies, Il Divo, Omid Djalili, David Garrett, Cee Lo Green, Jimeoin, Peter Kay, Leona Lewis, Pixie Lott, Jason Manford, Barry Manilow, Jai McDowall, Tim Minchin, Penn & Teller, Rolando Villazon and Haley Westenra. A drumming ensemble features cast members from Stomp as well as Royal Marines Corps, Kodo, The Dhol Foundation and 3Run.

The Royal Variety Performance is presented annually in aid of the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund, now often known as the Royal Variety Charity.