Creator and Director: Christopher D. Clegg
The Diana Mixtape opens on five glamorous drag queens, dressed as Diana, Princess of Wales, backlit, singing Ava Max’s Kings & Queens. The crowd goes wild. And that sets the tone of the show. The Diana Mixtape is a drag show on steroids.
Starring talented and beloved drag queens – Courtney Act, Priyanka, Divina De Campo, Rosé and Kitty Scott-Claus, who share the role of Diana. The genius concept sees them each play her in different moments of her life, as well as chatting with each other in some kind of metaverse. The show loosely takes us through the life story of Diana, but think less biopic and more musical extravaganza.
Some of the queens find more ease in the dialogue than others, but each has a moment to show off their particular skills. Rosé in particular gives a stunning performance of Angel of My Dreams as she prepares for her wedding day.
Keala Settle shines as Queen Elizabeth II. Her voice soars with ease and fills the space with her presence. Lucinda Lawrence is also brilliant in her grotesque portrayal of Camila Parker Bowles. A true triple threat, she sings, dances, and acts the house down.
The pop songs are cleverly chosen to serve the storytelling while also hooking the audience and getting us bopping along. The Pink Pony Club singalong is a particular highlight. Occasional sound level issues make some moments hard to catch.
The talented ensemble of dancers gives 110% the whole 90 minutes. Taz Hoesli’s commercial choreography is vibrant and creative. However, the ‘Dianas’ feel slightly over-choreographed and unable to deliver certain moments.
Christopher D. Clegg’s staging cleverly utilises all corners of the space and finds levels within the limited stage space. Unfortunately, the standing seats have audience members craning to see moments.
Lighting design by Toby P. Darvill gives a night club feel with screens acting as a backdrop and adding to this night club/ music video vibe. Overall, the video design adds to the impact and comedy of the show, but occasionally feels aimless. River Smith’s costuming throws back to all of Diana’s iconic fashion moments, and River Medway’s stunning wig work completes these looks.
The Diana Mixtape finds a way to poke fun and be silly while remaining respectful. It feels like an homage full of love, highlighted by the line “She would have f**king loved a drag show about her life”. And that seems absolutely true. This show knows its audience, and if you’re a fan of Diana or have ever dreamed of seeing a Drag Race ‘Rusical’ live…then this is for you.
Runs until 10 August 2025
