Sam Harvey reviews Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story at Nonsuch...
Somehow avoiding being a comedy car crash, Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story is a hilarious take on the late, great Princess of Wales' life. The team at Awkward Productions have put together a truly one-of-a-kind multi-media experience. Combining puppetry, downright iconic video editing, and cameo appearances from the Late Queen Liz and Captain Sir Tom Moore that are simply sublime. The tone strikes the perfect balance between razor sharp wit, a critique of the royal family, and downright farcical silliness, this show is truly the modern version of Monty Python.
Whilst I can find no fault with Linus Karp’s amazing performance as Diana, the same cannot be said for the supporting roles! Providing a unique take on the acting formula, Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story chooses to draw most of its cast from the audience- with unpredictable, iconic and often poorly acted results! I myself ended up playing the role of Gay Fan #1 (typecast again!) However special recognition should be given to the Corgi, Diana’s dad/ MI5 agent (spoilers), and who could forget The Landmine. This unique approach definitely brings the laughs, with some extra cast members looking set to steal the show. Luckily Karp’s stoic and dignified Diana always manages to steer the spotlight back to Our Lady Di.
This unique approach definitely brings the laughs
We must also give a shout out to Joseph Martin whose voice over work and expert puppetry skills only added to the chaos onstage- thanks to him I saw more of Camilla Parker Bowles nether regions than any other stage show. And whoever’s decision it was to give her the voice of a demonic Mr Blobby needs applauding!
Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story is more than just a stellar piece of comedy; it is a proud celebration of Queer Joy and a Queer Icon. I would highly recommend this show to anyone (unless you are a die hard royalist)!
Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story played at Nonsuch Studios on Sunday 12 November 2023.
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