The Prince of Wales was greeted by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber as he arrived at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane for the Prince’s Trust Awards.
Charles made a joke as he paused on the red carpet outside the West End theatre, which is owned by the 74-year-old impresario.
They were also joined by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa, on the steps of the venue.
Drury Lane has undergone major renovations in recent years, reopening in July 2021 with the Frozen musical currently showing.
Inside the theatre, Charles spoke to Bridgerton stars Jonathan Bailey and Phoebe Dynevor, with the former joking that he expected the raunchy Netflix show to “be on for the next 50 years”.
Bailey told the prince the series has been shooting in Bath and described the city as “stunning”.
A rumble of thunder was heard through an open window, prompting laughter from Charles and Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway, who were speaking ahead of the start of the ceremony.
In a major milestone, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly are hosting the annual awards for a 10th year and it will air on Thursday on ITV for the first time.
Actor Sir Ben Kingsley, Amal Clooney, Melanie C of the Spice Girls and adventurer Bear Grylls are among the invitees.
The Prince’s Trust helps young people from disadvantaged communities as they develop skills and confidence.
Prizes will be handed out in 11 categories with Charles expected to make a speech.
Founded by Charles in 1976, it supports 11 to 30-year-olds across the UK who are unemployed, struggling at school or at risk of exclusion.
