King Charles III marked a significant moment in the arts by unveiling new stage curtains at the Royal Opera House during the Spring Gala: Stories From The Royal Ballet And The Royal Opera. The event featured performances from both companies and was introduced by Sir Ian McKellen. The new mohair velour curtains, measuring 9.75m wide and 10.8m drop, replace the original curtains that had been in use since 1997, which had seen over 10,000 performances. The curtains incorporate the King's cipher, symbolizing the enduring relationship between the monarchy and the arts. Alex Beard, the chief executive of the Royal Ballet and Opera, expressed that welcoming the King was a privilege and highlighted the importance of the new curtains as a reflection of ongoing investment in the future of the organization. The new curtains were commissioned with support from the Julia Rausing Trust, known for promoting excellence in the arts.