The princess stunned fans with her outfit

Princess Kate has shared that her children were “very sad” not to join her and Prince William at the Royal Variety Performance, as they missed out on an exclusive stage show.

The Prince and Princess of Wales arrived on the red carpet in style, with William wearing a classic tuxedo while Kate wore a green velvet gown at the Royal Variety Charity event.

The princess was handed posies by nine-year-old twins Emelia and Olivia Edwards, who are the family of staff at Brinsworth House, a care home for entertainment industry workers supported by the charity.

Asking the pair if they were fans of Paddington, she told the girls her children were “very sad” not to be able to see the musical that was being showcased at the event.

Princess Kate revealed her children were sad to miss out on the Paddington performance | PA

“My kiddies were very sad, we’re going to have to keep it a big secret that I saw you guys,” she said.

“They were very sad not to be joining us.”

The girls presented William with a programme for the evening’s entertainment.

“Thank you very much,” he said. “You two look very pretty tonight.”

When Olivia told the prince her favourite singer is Billie Eilish, he replied she had good taste.

He said: “It’s very nice to see you both. You’re very smiley, you two.”

The future king and queen were treated to an array of performances on Wednesday | PA

“It’s infectious,” the princess added.

The Paddington musical put on an exclusive performance for the Royal Variety Performance, which was composed by the frontman of McFly, Tom Fletcher.

The event was hosted by Jason Manford and included a number of performances from theatre, comedy and music.

There was also a performance from the West End and Paris casts of Les Misérables, which included Michael Ball, Matt Lucas and Killian Donnelly to celebrate the show’s 40th anniversary.

Singers Jessie J and Laufey also took to the Royal Albert Hall stage.

Fans were sent into a frenzy on social media when they saw Princess Kate’s dress.

One fan said: “She looks gorgeous, but gosh, she must be chilly!”

Princess Kate sent fans wild with her outfit | PA

Another fan said: “She’s absolutely spectacular!”

With a third saying: “That dress is OH MY GOD STUNNING!”

A fourth added: “One of my favourite colours! Absolutely love the dress and the accessories.”