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British Royals

King Charles gives up his drink and busts out some moves as he tries traditional Samoan dancing

The King has thrown himself into traditional Samoan dancing at a big event marking an important moment for the Commonwealth.

King Charles will soon head to Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting and welcomed guests to St. James’ Palace for a reception celebrating the organisation.

As he toured a packed room, King Charles got talking to Freddie Tuilagi, one of Samoa’s most famous rugby players, who asked His Majesty to dance along with him.

Just as when he was asked for a hug by the New Zealand women’s rugby team, there were no second thoughts for The King who quickly offloaded his drink and started to join in.

Freddie Tuilangi told His Majesty ”this is how they will dance” when he arrives in Samoa and The King seemed keen to learn, copying the moves and adding his own flourishes.

He had slightly less luck with the ceremonial swat which his teacher hung over his shoulder at one point. It slid off the royal suit, towards the ground, as Queen Camilla looked on before it was quickly retrieved.

As his royal pupil moved on, Freddie Tuilangi was asked to score his attempts. He said, diplomatically, that King Charles has ”got the moves”.

Queen Camilla also had dance on her mind, catching up with her long time friend, Craig Revel Horwood, who was also at the reception along with fellow Strictly Come Dancing judge, Motsi Mabuse.

King Charles and Queen Camilla will visit Australia and Samoa later in October.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.