New Main Stage curtains unveiled to King Charles III at the Royal Opera House
His Majesty was joined on stage by Royal Ballet dancer Marianela Nuñez and soprano Pretty Yende for historic unveiling
His Majesty met artists and backstage technical teams, as well as the Royal School of Needlework – all involved in the creation of the new stage curtains
Last night, the Royal Ballet and Opera unveiled its new Main Stage curtains at the Spring Gala, in a moment of historic significance for the theatre. Attended by His Majesty King Charles III, the occasion not only marked a milestone in the theatre’s history but also paid tribute to the enduring artistry and craftsmanship of stage design.
His Majesty attended the gala and met artists; alongside RBO backstage and technical teams whose expertise bring productions to life. He also met representatives from curtain production specialists Gerriets and the expert embroiderers of the Royal School of Needlework, all of whom played a key role in the creation of the new curtains. During the visit, His Majesty viewed the original designs alongside intricate embroidery samples, gaining first-hand insight into the exceptional craftsmanship involved.
The new curtains feature the personal cipher of His Majesty The King and reflect the longstanding relationship between the monarchy and the performing arts. The commission was realised in collaboration with Gerriets and the Royal School of Needlework.
Following the gala performance, His Majesty met artists of The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet and appeared on stage in front of the newly unveiled curtains alongside internationally acclaimed performers: The Royal Ballet Principal dancer Marianela Nuñez and soprano Pretty Yende, who performed at the Coronation of King Charles III in May 2023, lending additional significance to the occasion.
The gala offered audiences a first glimpse of the newly commissioned curtains, created in honour of His Majesty, ahead of their first repertoire performance in The Royal Ballet’s production of Kenneth MacMillan’s Mayerling on Saturday, 16 May.
Alex Beard, Chief Executive of the Royal Ballet and Opera, said: ‘It was a privilege to welcome His Majesty The King this evening, bringing together artists from both companies in a shared celebration. 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.’