Schaufuss said that Polunin had been "quite confident" when he began rehearsals for Midnight Express last month.

BBC: Ballet star Sergei Polunin exits Midnight Express

The actor, 69, who has starred in films including Alien, The Elephant Man and Midnight Express, said it was "the highest honour possible".

BBC: John Hurt to be made BFI fellow

Polunin left Midnight Express days before its UK premiere.

BBC: Dancer Sergei Polunin is 'in Moscow and OK' says Tamara Rojo

Best known for acting roles in films which include Elephant Man, Midnight Express, 1984 and Alien, Mr Hurt began his association with NUA last year and officially accepted his ceremonial figurehead and ambassador position at the City Hall's Council Chamber.

BBC: Norfolk

There are also two Boston Whalers, a 23-foot Jet Boat, a Nautilus Rib Catamaran, and a 37-foot-long Midnight Express at the ready for snorkeling, diving excursions, and drop-offs on one of the islands in Copperfield Bay for those longing for a blue lagoon experience.

FORBES: Musha Cay, David Copperfield's Magic Private-Island Resort In The Bahamas