Queen Elizabeth's Secret Morning Dance Routine: A Royal Disco Behind Closed Doors

The late monarch's dresser reveals the Queen's joyful start to the day, filled with music and movement.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:09am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up photograph of a glittering disco ball reflecting a vibrant array of colors, conceptually representing the Queen's private morning dance routine.The Queen's secret morning dance routine, filled with music and movement, offers a rare glimpse into her joyful and human side.Vancouver Today

The late Queen Elizabeth II's morning routine was a delightful blend of royal duty and personal joy, as revealed by her trusted dresser, Angela Kelly. While one might expect a monarch's day to begin with a solemn ceremony, the Queen's approach was refreshingly lighthearted and full of life, including a morning dance routine set to ABBA's 'Dancing Queen'.

Why it matters

The Queen's choice of music and dance for her morning routine provides a rare glimpse into her personality, showcasing her youthful spirit and love for simple pleasures, even behind the palace walls. These intimate moments humanize the monarch and offer insight into the Queen's role as a grandmother who found joy in the mundane.

The details

According to Angela Kelly, the Queen would start her day by listening to Terry Wogan's Radio 2 show, which featured a mix of lighthearted chat and classic hits. She particularly enjoyed ABBA's 'Dancing Queen' and would often dance around her room, much to the delight of her dresser. The palace would also be filled with 'fluffy chicks and chocolate eggs' during the Easter season, and the Queen took great pleasure in hosting barbecues and other fun activities with her family.

  • The Queen's morning routine, including her dance to 'Dancing Queen', was a daily ritual.
  • The palace would be decorated with Easter-themed decorations during the spring season.

The players

Queen Elizabeth II

The late monarch of the United Kingdom, known for her dedication to public service and her ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life.

Angela Kelly

The Queen's trusted dresser, who provided the insider's view of the monarch's morning routine.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The Queen's choice of music for her morning routine is a telling detail. Terry Wogan's Radio 2 show, with its mix of lighthearted chat and classic hits, seems like an ideal companion for a morning full of energy and laughter.”

— Tuan Roob DDS, Author

“The Queen's love for music and dance, as demonstrated by her morning routine, is a testament to her human side, a side that many people connected with on a personal level.”

— Tuan Roob DDS, Author

What’s next

The Queen's legacy and the insights into her personal life continue to captivate the public's imagination, with further details about her private moments likely to emerge in the years to come.

The takeaway

The Queen's morning routine is a microcosm of her entire life, showcasing her ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life, even in the most prestigious and revered positions. Her example serves as a reminder that embracing the lighter, more personal aspects of life can be a powerful source of strength and inspiration.