A new documentary is set to reveal the incredible story behind one of Wales’ most extraordinary events: a star-studded charity concert at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium that raised over £1.25 million for victims of the devastating Boxing Day tsunami.

 

On January 22, 2005, just three weeks after the tsunami struck Indonesia, killing over 230,000 people, 66,000 fans filled the Millennium Stadium (now Principality Stadium) for the largest charity concert in the UK since Live Aid. The event featured performances by Eric Clapton, Manic Street Preachers, Stereophonics, Craig David, Katherine Jenkins, and Snow Patrol, and was broadcast live by BBC and S4C, showcasing Wales as a key player in the global relief effort.

 

The concert’s success was anything but assured. With just a £50,000 budget and no lineup secured, organizers Paul Sergeant, Pablo Janczur, and Rupert Moon created a plan on the back of a beer mat and faced numerous challenges along the way. Despite these hurdles, their determination delivered an unforgettable event that resonated worldwide.

 

The new documentary, Tsunami 2005: One Night in Cardiff, recounts the gripping story of how this historic event came together, featuring archival footage and interviews with performers and organizers, including Jools Holland, Feeder, Goldie Lookin Chain, Craig David, and Katherine Jenkins. Accompanying the documentary is Tsunami 2005: The Concert, an hour-long highlights program showcasing unseen performances and behind-the-scenes moments.

 

Pablo Janczur reflected on the achievement:

“This story is one that embodies the Welsh spirit of resilience and generosity. The fact that we pulled off the UK’s biggest charity concert since Live Aid is a testament to what we can achieve together.”

The Tsunami 2005 specials are produced by Orchard for BBC Cymru Wales. The production team includes executive producer Adrian Jones (Skin Deep, Pizza Boys), director Daisy Brown (Slammed), producer Jack Carey, and director of photography Phil Chappell.