In Diana – the Untold and Untrue Story, prepare for the plot of the nation’s much-loved Princess to look a little different than you’d expect.
The real-life-inspired cautionary tale takes a walk through Diana’s life and almost-loves. There’s all the key moments you’d expect – the wedding, the childbearing and the charitable work – with a silly-tinged spin that sets it somewhat apart from reality.
The details in this Diana-inspired show are sharp and sassy. From Camilla giving deranged demi-gorgon horndog as a puppet, to Diana being birthed by an audience member. Awkward Productions have a smart approach to extras, and it shows. Audience members pop up at regular intervals to help out, and are generally open-minded about being made to participate. Other highlights include video reports from Geri Allen as a Queen on a deadline, which are quick-witted and address rumours that ring all-too-true for those watching. Our opener, Ru Paul’s Drag Race alum, Pixie Polite, also gets more than a few laughs, incorporating their set into a fabulous introduction to the story to follow. This sets the scene beautifully.
Linus Karp has a genuine resemblance to our fashion icon hero that would have been almost criminal not to capitalise on. Whether donning 80s lycra or THAT revenge dress, he’s a Diana-esque darling with a scandi accent to boot. In contrast, Charles is a little…well…flat (deliberately). He’s vocalised by Karp’s real-life partner, Joseph Martin, and the muttering, monosyllabic vibes are too accurate for words.
If we had one critique for this show, it’s that it could be even weirder. There’s a sense that this production is a little too faithful to the real storyline at points in the early and mid stages. Leaning in on the ‘untrue’ element of this tale is where the real magic lies. Satisfyingly, a fever dream plot twist makes the show finish on a real high note, with the audience clapping along a’ la the most divine drag show. Royalists will be horrified by this reimagining – once referred to by The Daily Mail as ‘repellent trash’ – and perhaps this is precisely where the charm lies.
Diana – the Untold and Untrue Story is a strong choice for fans of HRH with a sense of humour, and royal sceptics everywhere. With signature Awkward Productions silliness and ample audience participation, there’s much-fun to be had here.
Reviewed on 1 July 2026.
The Reviews Hub Star Rating
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8
