DATE NIGHT AT THE ROYAL VARIETY

The Prince and Princess of Wales make a glamorous and emotional return to the red carpet at the Royal Albert Hall

- TRACY SCHAVERIEN

The Princess of Wales made a glamorous, emotional return to the red carpet as she and her husband the Prince attended the Royal Variety Performance for the first time in two years, showcasing their unique brand of diplomacy.

"It's so nice to be back for the performance," said Kate, giving William a loving look as he placed his arm affectionately on her back.

Wearing matching velvet for their date night at London's Royal Albert Hall, the couple sat side by side in the historic venue's Royal Box, exchanging smiles as they watched the charity fundraising show.

The evening included a charming performance by Paddington Bear and a poignant song from the pop star Jessie J, who hugged Kate afterwards as they bonded over their shared experience of cancer.

"I just had breast cancer," Jessie, 37, told Kate, who is in remission after undergoing chemotherapy last year for an undisclosed form of cancer. "I just want to give you a hug; cancer really puts life into perspective."

The Princess dazzled in a floor-length emerald-green velvet gown by the German label Talbot Runhof, featuring a wide V neckline and a fishtail skirt. She teamed the dress with green velvet heels from Manolo Blahnik and a lamé clutch by Jenny Packham, and accessorised with the late Queen Elizabeth's diamond Greville chandelier earrings – a wedding gift in 1947 – and Queen Mary's diamond bar choker bracelet. William, meanwhile, was smart in black tie.