The starry invitees were serenaded by a gala performance and a speech from Sir Ian McKellen before King Charles took to the stage with Royal Ballet Principal dancer Marianela Nuñez and soprano Pretty Yende, who previously performed at the King’s Coronation in 2023. It marked the first glimpse of the newly designed curtains, which will make their first showing at a repertoire performance when the Royal Ballet puts on Kenneth MacMillan’s Mayerling on 16 May.
His Majesty is known for his dedication to British artisan crafts, a cause that he consistently promotes through his work with the King’s Trust. As such, curtain production specialists worked with the Royal School of Needlework to bring to life a new staple of the Royal Opera House, one that audiences will see each and every evening.
The King was welcomed on stage by Marianela Nuñez and Pretty Yende
Laura Aziz
‘It was a privilege to welcome His Majesty The King this evening, bringing together artists from both companies in a shared celebration,’ said Alex Beard, Chief Executive of the Royal Ballet and Opera.
‘The unveiling of the new stage curtains marks an important moment for the organisation, reflecting our continued investment in the future of our stage and in the remarkable craft that underpins every performance.’
This may have been real life, rather than an episode of sumptuous period drama, but when it comes to the Royal Ballet and Opera, all eyes are on the new season.