Queen Camilla visited the Royal Academy of Dance’s headquarters on September 2, 2026, where she highlighted the health and wellbeing benefits of dance programmes tailored to various age groups and medical conditions. During the visit, she engaged with participants and instructors involved in charitable dance initiatives.

The Queen, 79, who described herself as “a little creaky” after her summer holiday in Scotland, was welcomed by Sarah Platt, founder of the Silver Swans programme. The initiative is designed for individuals over 55 and focuses on improving posture, balance, and coordination through movement exercises inspired by musical theatre. Platt also teaches Queen Camilla at Clarence House, where the monarch practices dance alongside friends and staff.

Camilla met with several Silver Swans participants during the session, observing how the class supports physical and mental wellbeing in older adults. She also interacted with attendees from Fireflies Ballet Classes for the Cancer Community, a programme based in Battersea, South London, founded by RAD teacher Natalie Hall. This initiative combines classical ballet movements and music to create a nurturing space for people affected by cancer, fostering reflection, healing, and emotional support.

Addressing the cancer community dancers, Queen Camilla expressed her appreciation for the programme's positive impact, stating that it was “uplifting” and gave participants “a bit of a buzz,” making them feel better. She praised their performances, telling them, “You were brilliant!”

The visit illustrated the Royal Academy of Dance’s commitment to making dance accessible to people of all ages and abilities, including those facing health challenges. Queen Camilla’s engagement underscored the growing recognition of arts-based activities as valuable tools for enhancing physical health and emotional resilience.