A Manchester-based drag sensation is bringing Princess Diana to life in a groundbreaking new theater production, Diana The Mixtape. Featuring a cast of RuPaul’s Drag Race stars, this one-of-a-kind performance reimagines the People’s Princess through modern-day pop anthems, stunning choreography, and breathtaking costumes, offering theatergoers a fresh perspective on one of history’s most beloved icons.
Reinterpreting Diana’s Legacy
Set to debut at London’s West End before embarking on a limited run at The Lowry Theatre in Salford from August 19-21, Diana The Mixtape intertwines iconic moments from Diana’s life, including her marriage, divorce, and tragic passing. This captivating show explores her story through five drag queens, each highlighting a different facet of her personality, from her elegance to her rebellious spirit.
Manchester drag artist Divina de Campo, known for their stint on season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, couldn’t contain their excitement. “I never thought I’d get to say I’m playing Princess Diana,” Divina revealed. “Seeing Diana driving past my school years ago feels like a distant dream now that I get to embody her on stage. It’s wild!”
A Cast Fit for Royalty
The production boasts an impressive cast, including RuPaul stars Courtney Act, Priyanka, Kitty Scott-Claus, and Rosé, who share the role of Diana. Adding even more star power, Keala Settle of The Greatest Showman fame portrays Queen Elizabeth II, while former Hear’Say member Noel Sullivan takes on King Charles III.
According to Divina, the musical not only celebrates Diana but showcases the diversity of the performers themselves, emphasizing inclusivity and individuality. “Five queens portraying Diana reflect the complexity of her personality. We’re different singers, different body types, and different personas, but together, we bring her story to life in a way that’s never been done before.”
Diana’s Timeless Appeal
While Divina admits they aren’t a royalist, they admire Diana’s compassion and commitment to advocacy. “She constantly showed kindness and humanity, whether it was embracing HIV/AIDS patients during a time of stigma or empathizing with those less fortunate,” Divina explained. “Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life made her truly extraordinary.”
Through vibrant choreography, campy dialogues, and reimagined hits from artists like Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue, Britney Spears, and Katy Perry, the show is poised to enthrall audiences with its high-energy tribute to Diana’s enduring legacy.
A Must-See Experience
The rehearsals have been a labor of love for Divina and the cast, working alongside seasoned professionals like Keala Settle and Lucinda Lawrence, who portrays Camilla. “They’ve been so supportive,” said Divina. “It’s been such a collaborative experience, and we’ve all had a blast getting this show ready. It’s truly something special, and I think audiences will love it.”
Diana The Mixtape will run at The Lowry Theater, Salford, from August 19-21. Tickets are on sale now, and this limited-run production promises to deliver an unforgettable night at the theater. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate Diana’s life and legacy like never before.
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