Queen Camilla made a characteristically witty return to royal duties on Wednesday, confessing she felt “a little creaky” following the summer break at Balmoral Castle.
The 79-year-old visited the Royal Academy of Dance at its global headquarters in London, where she serves as patron.
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When her ballet instructor Sarah Platt enquired about her wellbeing, the Queen replied: “I’m still standing!” before adding with a laugh: “Just!”
It marked her first official engagement since the Scottish holiday, and she appeared in fine spirits despite her self-deprecating assessment. At the academy, she was greeted by its president, Dame Darcey Bussell – the celebrated ballerina and former Strictly Come Dancing judge.
Mrs Platt, a former teacher trainer at the RAD, devised the “Silver Swans” programme aimed at dancers over 55.
Her connection with the Queen dates back to 2017, when the pair first crossed paths at an official engagement.
“She said, ‘I wouldn’t mind becoming a silver swan,’ and said her office would be in touch. I never thought they would be, but they did, and we started only a few months later,” Mrs Platt recalled.
The sessions have continued ever since at Clarence House, typically with a small group. “There’s normally around four of them, Her Majesty and a few friends or staff,” Mrs Platt explained.
As for the Queen’s abilities on the barre, her instructor was full of praise, saying: “She loves ballet, and she really gives it her all.”
Camilla embraced her teacher warmly upon their reunion, dressed in an Anna Valentine outfit, before settling in to observe a class. Broadcaster Angela Rippon, herself a Silver Swans participant, joined her for the occasion.
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The Queen also spent time watching the Fireflies Ballet Classes, a programme designed for individuals living with cancer that offers a supportive environment for reflection and recovery.
“It’s so uplifting. It gives you a bit of a buzz and makes you feel a lot better. I love it, and you were brilliant!” the Queen told them, adding: “It’s absolutely the best thing.”
The late Queen Elizabeth II held the patronage of RAD from 1953 until her death in 2022. Camilla assumed the role in 2024.
The Queen has thrown herself back into her duties with considerable vigour after the Scottish summer break, with a packed few days.
Following the dancing, the King and Queen viewed the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, his wife Brigitte Macron, Prime Minister Andy Burnham, and his wife Marie-France Van-Heel.
On Thursday, Her Majesty visited Ebony Horse Club in Brixton to celebrate three decades of the beloved youth charity and community riding centre, then took to the stage at the Royal Festival Hall for an unannounced appearance at the annual Letters Live event.
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