Radio choice Charlotte Runcie

RADIO 4, 7.15PM

 BBC radio’s flagship arts discussion programme celebrates its 20th birthday tonight, in a special edition broadcast live from the BBC Radio Theatre and presented by Kirsty Lang and John Wilson. The strand has weathered many a cultural storm over its two decades, with presenters coming and going, and has recently taken a step across the barricades with a TV incarnation, which also returns to BBC Two tonight (see above). Throughout all that, though, it remains a key weekday listen for keeping a finger on the nation’s art pulse, and long may it continue. Friday Night Is Music Night

RADIO 2, 8.00PM

 Ken Bruce introduces celebrations of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force with Carol Vorderman and Dan Snow in a concert live from the Albert Hall. The evening comprises music, comedy, ceremonial drill, archive footage and personal recollections by the men and women of the Royal Air Force. During the concert’s interval Ken Bruce previews some of the wider programme of events, including a grand parade and fly past in London on July 10th, and finds out more about the RAF’S grand history.