Cast members from the music-filled Broadway musical Motown — including Brandon Victor Dixon and 2013 Tony nominee Valisia LeKae — were featured in the 90-minute program.

Broadcast live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, the evening also featured the talents of Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Candice Glover, Scotty McCreery, Darren Criss, Jackie Evancho, Megan Hilty, John Williams, The National Symphony Orchestra and Maestro Jack Everly.

In celebration of America’s 236th birthday, the show closed with Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” complete with live cannon fire provided by The United States Army Presidential Salute Battery. The event also included The Choral Arts Society of Washington, along with The U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, The U.S. Army Ceremonial Band, the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Band, members of the Armed Forces carrying the state and territorial flags and the Joint Armed Forces Color Guard provided by the Military District of Washington, D.C.

*

Darren Criss performs "Shout":

Jackie Evancho performs the National Anthem:

Evancho performs "Can You Feel the Love Tonight":

Megan Hilty performs "Strike Up the Band":

Hilty performs "Someone to Watch Over Me":