King Charles, Idris Elba Mark NYMT 50th Anniversary

King Charles joined Sir Idris Elba at The Other Palace in central London on Thursday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Youth Music Theatre, a charity that provides musical theatre opportunities to young people from all backgrounds.

The King and the actor met performers and students from the National Youth Music Theatre and CORE Education schools in Birmingham during workshops focused on drama, improvisation and musical theatre. They observed sessions in the studio space, where students practiced reacting to unexpected scenarios, including the surprise entrance of Charles himself. The royal visitor praised the group, telling them, "You've got good teachers who encourage you," and inquired about the rigorous selection process for their courses.

Charles shared a personal interest in dance, revealing to student Bill, a 21-year-old NYMT member, that he owns a pair of tap shoes. "Do you learn to tap dance?" the King asked, prompting an offer from the students to teach him, though no lesson was scheduled on the spot. He also engaged the group on Shakespeare, asking if they had acted in his plays. Upon learning they had not, Charles advised, "The best way to understand...