Queen Camilla, 77, recently held an extraordinary gathering at Buckingham Palace, welcoming an array of famous guests, including Oscar winner Cate Blanchett, We Live in Time star Andrew Garfield, and former Late Late Show host James Corden. This festive event, which took place on Tuesday, February 18, was organized in honor of the National Theatre, of which Queen Camilla proudly serves as a patron.
Among the illustrious attendees were Downton Abbey star Jim Carter, his wife Imelda Staunton—who played Queen Elizabeth in the critically acclaimed series The Crown—and Lesley Manville, recognized for her role as Princess Margaret in Netflix’s portrayal of the British royal family. The atmosphere was brimming with excitement as the Queen engaged with her celebrity guests, showcasing her genuine love for the performing arts.
During the event, an unexpected highlight occurred when Queen Camilla was surprised by a performance from the play The Importance of Being Earnest, one of her favorites. Actress Sharon D. Clarke, portraying the character Lady Bracknell, invited the Queen to take her seat for the performance, which left everyone cheerful and entertained. Clarke was joined on stage by Ncuti Gatwa from Sex Education and Doctor Who, who played the role of Algernon, alongside Hugh Skinner as Jack Worthing.
According to The Telegraph, the Queen was visibly delighted during the performance, laughing heartily at the witty lines. The scene concluded with a memorable exchange where Jack responds in frustration, “No, I can’t abide the Palace,” to which the audience and the Queen reacted with laughter.
After the performance, Queen Camilla met the cast in the Picture Gallery and admired the striking jewelry worn by the fictional Lady Bracknell. Jokingly, she expressed a desire to borrow a few pieces for an upcoming state dinner, noting, “I think it would be just the job,” while commenting on the size of a significant diamond. Clarke’s playful response was, “You can’t nick any of them. But if you want to fashion yourself like me…”
Expressing her admiration for Clarke’s portrayal, the Queen remarked, “You are brilliant at it, you got her spot on.” Clarke shared her own enthusiasm, stating, “I have loved every second of playing Lady Bracknell, it was never something I ever expected to play.” This exchange highlighted the connection between the Queen and the performing arts community.
The event’s significance was amplified by the fact that Queen Camilla became the royal patron of the National Theatre in 2022, a role previously held by Meghan Markle. Camilla recalled a memorable encounter with Gatwa during their participation in a Christmas recording intended to support The Actors Benevolent Fund amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Gatwa expressed gratitude for being welcomed back, commenting, “It was so much fun.”
In a heartfelt speech, Sir Damon Buffini, the chairman of the National Theatre, praised Queen Camilla, saying, “It’s absolutely fantastic that you’re our patron. We are, after all, the Royal National Theatre. It means a huge amount to us to have your support.” He humorously suggested she bring her husband along to future events, promising it wouldn’t be too lengthy.
As the evening concluded, the Queen reflected on the joyous occasion, reportedly telling her guests, “That was a very lovely occasion.” This sentiment encapsulated the spirit of camaraderie and the celebratory atmosphere that permeated the night, marking a successful event that brought together art and royalty in a delightful celebration.
