The Royal Albert Hall was transformed into an acrobatic arena as celebrities turned out for the debut of Cirque du Soleil’s show Kooza.
Sir Ben Kingsley revealed himself as a long-time fan of the Montreal-based circus group after flying in from Brazil with his son Ferdinand. “They are brilliant and unique — I have a different favourite bit every time I see them,” he said.
Twiggy, actress Ronni Ancona, singer Katherine Jenkins and pregnant Gavin & Stacey star Joanna Page were also at the show last night. It tells the story of a young clown trying to find his place in the world.
Ancona, who is filming a second series of BBC hit series Last Tango in Halifax, said: “I’m obsessed with supple and un-clumsy people and always wanted to be a ballet dancer.”
Actress Olivia Williams, who has just finished filming the film Ten with Arnold Schwarzenegger, said: “It is beautiful and imaginative. I’m in danger of climbing up on stage and joining in — it looks like such fun.”
Supermodel Eva Herzigova, actress and singer Holly Candy and Olympics broadcaster and former swimming champion Mark Foster also attended. Foster admitted: “I would have loved to have been a gymnast, but I’m too tall.”
Ex-Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips, 69, who was made a CBE in the New Year’s honours list, said she thought Prince Harry would make her perfect partner. “We know Harry gets his hips out all the time,” she said. “I think I could teach him a thing or two.”
Kooza runs until February 14.
