Comedy greats line up for Charles (From Enfield Independent)

Comedy greats line up for Charles

5:03pm Tuesday 30th September 2008

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Robin Williams is to return to the UK stage after a 25-year absence along with comedy greats John Cleese and Rowan Atkinson to celebrate the Prince of Wales' 60th birthday.

The televised gala is being held to raise tens of thousands of pounds for youth charity The Prince's Trust.

The Prince, a "comedy fan", and the Duchess of Cornwall will attend the comedy night, We Are Most Amused, on November 12, two days before his birthday.

Monty Python star Cleese, 68, has promised something "extra special" for the event at London's New Wimbledon Theatre.

Mr Bean and Blackadder star Atkinson, 53, is returning to the stage after years on the small and big screen. Atkinson, who is preparing to play Fagin in the forthcoming West End stage production of Oliver!, last went on a live tour in 1991.

More acts will be announced in the run-up to the night, which will be broadcast on ITV1 and feature comedy sketches as well as stand-up.

The broadcaster said: "The line-up will bring together the very best in comedy talent - from much-loved established names to fresh young acts from the stand-up circuit - a combination which will appeal to all ages and, above all, to comedy fan and guest of honour the Prince of Wales."

Clarence House has also confirmed that the Prince will celebrate his 60th birthday with two parties.

The Queen will host an event at Buckingham Palace in honour of her son and heir. A private party will also be staged for Prince Charles at his Highgrove Estate in Gloucestershire.

The 1,500 tickets for We Are Most Amused go on sale on Wednesday, with prices ranging from £25 to £100.

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