Royal shock: Monaco’s royals cancel Rose Ball for first time in history over coronavirus
MONACO'S Royal Family has been forced to cancel their annual glitzy Rose Ball for the first time in its 66-year history due to the coronavirus epidemic fast sweeping across Europe.
Monaco: Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella play with toys
The glamorous gala was established by Princess Grace of Monaco in 1954 and has since been held each year without fail. The party even went ahead following Grace’s death in September 1982. The ball was scheduled for March 21 but will now be held at a later date, depending on how the crisis plays out.
A statement published on the Rose Ball website read: “Due to the stricter precautionary measures related to COVID-19, we are forced to postpone this event.
“We will schedule a new date depending on how the situation develops.”
The ball, which costs €800 (£710) per seat, is organised by the Monte Carlo Society des Bain de Mer (Monaco Sea Bath Society).
It is described as “a radiant spectacle in a fabulous decor” which attracts multiple household names year after year.
Princess Albert of Monaco and Princess Caroline of Hanover preside over the event for the Princess Grace Foundation.
The charity contributes to humanitarian projects which help children and students through cultural projects.
It was founded by American actress Grace in 1964.
After her death, Princess Caroline took over as president of the foundation.
READ MORE: Justin Trudeau coronavirus scare: Canadian PM self-isolating
Princess Charlene of Monaco has been a regular face at the dinner in recent years.
Each year it is held at Salle des Etoiles of Monte-Carlo Sporting.
Last year fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld was honoured on the night following his death in February 2019.
DON'T MISS
How Varadkar is using Ireland’s coronavirus crisis to cling to power [INSIGHT]
Eight million to shun French election as coronavirus death toll soars [ANALYSIS]
Coronavirus school closures: Teachers gear up for four-week shutdown[INSIGHT]
He had served as the Rose Ball’s artistic director since 1999.
The theme for this year’s event was to be on the Indian film industry - Bollywood.
French fashion designer Christian Louboutin curated the show.
But it’s not all bad news for the royals in Monaco.
On Wednesday Princess Caroline’s step-son, Prince Christian of Hanover, announced he is expecting his first child with wife of three years, Alessandra de Osma.
The German-born royal married Alessandra, a Peruvian fashion designer, in a civil ceremony in London in 2017.
The following year the pair celebrated in a religious ceremony in Peru.
Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie were among the royal guests to attend the lavish three-day event.
Alessandra is affectionately known in the press as the Princess of the Andes.