30 March 2026, 08:30
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Classic FM
High drama, higher notes, and classical music’s biggest divas.
Comedian and presenter Tom Allen joins Classic FM to host a brand-new series, revealing the most extraordinary personalities behind some of the world’s favourite classical music.
From opera superstars and larger-than-life legends to temperamental composers, eccentrics and fabulous troublemakers, Totally Outrageous with Tom Allen will celebrate the biggest classical divas, both on stage and off. The series runs for three nights across the Easter weekend, on Friday 3, Saturday 4, and Sunday 5 April at 9pm.
The first episode is all about classical music’s biggest drama queens: from Beethoven’s famously fiery temper to Mozart’s penchant for childish jokes, and the ever-eccentric Erik Satie, who filled his apartment with more than 100 umbrellas.
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Further episodes will include classical music’s biggest scandals, including riotous premieres, and most over-the-top moments, from 40-part harmonies to actual cannons.
Tom Allen said: “Classical music has everything: glamour, passion, genius – and people behaving absolutely appallingly! I’m looking forward to joining Classic FM – a station I love listening to – and to celebrate the divas, scandals and magnificent mischief-makers of the classical world. Frankly, I feel among friends.”
Joseph Zubier, Managing Editor of Classic FM, said: “Tom is the perfect guide to this wonderfully entertaining world of classical excess. I know he will bring his trademark warmth and brilliant sense of fun to this new mini-series which will be a fantastic addition to our Classic FM Hall of Fame weekend. Listeners are in for a treat – and possibly the odd tantrum.”
Totally Outrageous with Tom Allen launches on Friday 3 April at 9pm on Classic FM and Global Player – the official Classic FM app.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.classicfm.com ’
