
Queen Silvia of Sweden’s 80th birthday celebrations have commenced with a special concert in Stockholm.
The concert was held at the independent music school Lilla Akademien in the Swedish capital, and the newly built concert hall has been named after Her Majesty, who is patron of the school.
Lilly Rung Klint, project coordinator for the school, explained that the children prepared for a long time to perform for the Royal Family. They were thrilled to help celebrate the Queen’s special day.
“We are, of course, very happy that she wants to have part of her celebration in this concert hall,” she said.
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The children performed “Dancing Queen,” by ABBA and later sang “Happy Birthday” to Queen Silvia before the Queen went to thank them for all their work.
The Queen’s daughter, Princess Madeleine, flew in from Florida for the event and attended alongside her parents and older brother, Prince Carl Philip. Crown Princess Victoria and her husband, Prince Daniel, are on an official visit to the United Kingdom and could not attend.
Queen Silvia’s brother-in-law, Tord Magnusson, was also in attendance alongside another special royal guest – Princess Benedikte of Denmark.
The Swedish royals joined the Danish Princess for a photo before the concert.
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The Queen told the media that it “feels great” to turn 80.
Queen Silvia turns 80 on 23 December, and she is being celebrated throughout December at various events to mark her special day.