“The people who will change the world are not the ones you think will change the world.”
DIANA: THE MUSICAL was supposed to make its Broadway debut in March 2020. It will finally open this fall, but Netflix is allowing viewers a special preview. The stage show was recently filmed without an audience so that everyone could have a ticket.
DIANA: THE MUSICAL is a huge tale to share. The creators of this production decided to center on a small, talented cast of characters and followed the timeline of Diana at age 19 until her early death. Diana (Jeanna de Waal) displayed her strong, capable voice all while keeping in touch with the Princess’s quiet demeanor.
Jeanna was definitely a quick-change artist throughout the two hours. Diana was a fashion icon, and this is the highlight of the musical. You will have to look extremely close to catch all the gowns coming and going, especially the infamous wedding dress—amazing moments from history. Kudos to the costume designer!
The set was simple. Chairs, tables, a sofa, and beds moved on and off as needed. The backdrop depended on the special effects, and it was all very believable. The lighting was well done. The photographer’s flashing bulbs were realistic, especially at the end with Diana’s death.
DIANA: THE MUSICAL has its flaws. The music and words are not memorable. You will not be humming any of the tunes as you turn off the tv. This is a killer for a musical. The play needed to dive deeper. It almost trivialized Diana’s life. Almost.
I am a huge fan of theatre since it was my chosen profession for over 35 years. I love sitting in a darkened theatre and becoming “one” with the actors on stage. DIANA: THE MUSICAL was not one of my many favorite Broadway shows, but it deserves to be seen and admired for the tough story it tells and represents.
It is available to stream on Netflix.
