King Charles thrilled theatre-goers with an unexpected visit to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire. Arriving to enthusiastic cheers, the King took a seat among members of the public during a sold-out performance of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, featuring Sir Kenneth Branagh in the lead role.
Upon arrival, Charles was warmly greeted by Warwickshire’s Lord Lieutenant Tim Cox and the Royal Shakespeare Company’s co-artistic directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey. Audience members from the dress circle eagerly looked down while those in the stalls captured the moment on their phones as the King settled in near the back, between Mr. Evans and Ms. Harvey.
Sharing the experience, Ms. Harvey noted that Charles was “laughing away” during the show, adding that he “genuinely enjoyed it.” Mr. Evans recalled King Charles’ keen interest in the production, saying that the King recognized actor Guy Henry upon his entrance, proving his deep enthusiasm for theatre.
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During the interval, King Charles mingled with the RSC’s costume department, admiring a variety of iconic garments. He examined a crown from last year’s production of Edward II, touched a dress worn by Dame Judi Dench in 2003’s All’s Well That Ends Well, and marveled at David Tennant’s robe from Richard II in 2013. He also viewed an attire worn by Sir Antony Sher in a 1984 staging of Richard III, describing the costumes as “brilliant.”
The King concluded his visit by giving a standing ovation at the performance’s end. Having taken on the role of patron of the Royal Shakespeare Company earlier this year, King Charles continues the legacy of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who served as patron since the company’s founding in 1961.
This production of The Tempest also marks notable milestones: it is Sir Kenneth Branagh’s debut as Prospero after a prolific career with 35 Shakespeare plays, and the directorial debut of Sir Richard Eyre with the RSC. The play runs at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre until June 20.
Co-artistic directors Evans and Harvey expressed their honor at welcoming His Majesty back to Stratford-upon-Avon, highlighting the significance of this historic production.