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Prince Charles and Prince William each took the stage on Saturday at the star-studded “Platinum Party” at Buckingham Palace, paying tribute to the weekend’s leading honorary member, Queen Elizabeth II.
Charles began his speech with “Your Majesty, Mama” before thinking of her for her “life of selfless service.” He added: “Your family now spans four generations. You are our head of state. And you are also our mother.” Charles, 73, also brought up his late father, Prince Philip, in his speech.
“My father would have loved the show and wholeheartedly joined us in celebrating all that you continue to do for your country and your people,” he said. “Looking back, we think of the countless state events that have marked milestones on this country’s road. And then at the end of the day you think of red boxes filled with government papers. You will remember those who led this country. Indeed, all the countries you serve. And leaders around the world.”
And he concluded by saying, “You met us and talked to us. You laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us for 70 years. You promised to serve all your life – you continue to deliver “That’s why we’re here. That’s what we’re celebrating tonight. These pictures on your house are the story of your life – and ours. So, Your Majesty, that’s why we all say ‘thank you.’”
William also took the stage and joked that Buckingham Palace had “turned into an IMAX screen”, referring to the gigantic images projected onto the iconic building. William spoke during the “Our Green Planet” segment which also featured a pre-recorded message from Sir David Attenborough.
The audience was treated to a magnificent event, with live performances from Alicia Keys, Rod Stewart, Queen and many more. Elton John’s pre-recorded performance was also projected at Buckingham Palace.
Those who couldn’t be close to the stage for the performances also got a show from above, when a spectacular drone show appeared after the sun went down. The drones formed a teapot, an image of the Queen and the words, “Thank you, ma’am.”
It’s fitting that such an extravagant show went off without a hitch, given the shindig’s spectacular start. Elizabeth and Paddington Beertje performed a pre-recorded skit that generated much laughter from the rowdy crowd. A spokesman for the Palace informs ET that the sketch was shot in March.
“Her Majesty is known for her sense of humor, so it should come as no surprise that she decided to participate in tonight’s sketch,” the spokesperson added. “There was interest in the filming and animation process and the chance to invite a famous bear for tea was just too much to miss.”
The Platinum Jubilee, in honor of the Queen’s 70th anniversary to the throne, continues on Sunday, with Charles and Camilla attending a Big Jubilee Lunch at The Oval in London. More than 60,000 people have registered to host their own Big Jubilee Lunches, according to the Royal Family, and more than 10 million people are expected to participate in the Commonwealth.
Later in the day, the weekend’s celebrations will conclude with the Platinum Jubilee Pageant, another procession featuring figures from the music, film, sports and arts that will celebrate highlights of the Queen’s historic reign. The spectacle is led by the Gold State Carriage and led by Ed Sheeran.
The day will conclude with a performance of the National Anthem and ‘God Save the Queen’.
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