The Royal Opera House in London has announced a significant commission for a new pair of main stage curtains, created to honour His Majesty King Charles III.
A Regal Tribute and Practical Necessity
After an impressive 26 years of service, the current curtains are being retired. It is estimated they have been opened and closed for more than 10,000 performances, succumbing to the inevitable wear and tear of daily use. This makes the new commission both a practical necessity and a powerful symbolic renewal for one of the world's most famous performance venues.
A spokesman for the Royal Ballet and Opera confirmed the new curtains will be a prominent tribute, featuring the personal cipher of King Charles. The King serves as patron to the Royal Opera House, the Royal Opera, and the Royal Ballet, and this gesture symbolises the enduring relationship between the monarchy and the arts.
Craftsmanship and Collaboration
The creation of the new curtains is a collaborative effort between two renowned specialists. The project brings together Gerriets, a leader in stage equipment, and the Royal School of Needlework, famous for its exquisite embroidery and conservation work.
The curtains themselves will be crafted from mohair velour and constructed in two parts. Each piece will measure an imposing 9.75 metres wide with a 10.8 metre drop, designed to make a grand statement on the Covent Garden stage. The official unveiling is scheduled for May 2025.
Investing in a Theatrical Future
Sir Alex Beard, chief executive of the Royal Ballet and Opera, emphasised that this project is part of a vital renewal programme for the building. He stated, "This commission is part of a vital programme of renewal across the Royal Opera House, addressing areas of the building last updated in the 1990s."
He added, "The new curtains are not only a celebration of tradition and artistry, but a necessary investment in the future of our stage. We are proud to honour His Majesty's patronage in such a prominent and lasting way."
The commissioning of the new curtains was made possible by a generous grant from the Julia Rausing Trust, an organisation dedicated to supporting excellence in the arts. This grant forms part of a wider investment into major upgrades for the Royal Opera House's staging and lighting infrastructure, ensuring its legacy for years to come.
