The brand new musical is set to make headlines as a “celebration of love” and a “moving tribute” to the late royal, who died in a Paris car crash in 1997. Created by pioneers David Smart and Brian Watson, the show sees Natasha John taking on the mammoth task of portraying the people’s princess, and the Welsh singer appeared on Lorraine Kelly’s chat show to talk about the show today. Speaking about the role, she began: “Well, when they first called me and said, ‘Diana the musical’, even I thought, ‘This is a bit strange’. “But when I heard the music and then I read the script, I thought, ‘This is actually a lovely tribute.’
“The lyrics they’ve used are words that she actually said. It’s her story, it’s a tribute.”
The star went on to say fans of the royal will be pleased with the interpretation of Diana’s life and the well-publicised events, but there are heartbreaking moments too.
“If you loved Diana you will love this show, I promise,” she enthused. “The music is amazing, the costumes… if you were a fan of Diana you will love this show.
“I’m a little bit scared to be honest, but it’s going to be fine,” Natasha continued. “I just keep telling myself, ‘It’s going to be fine, I can do this.’
“She was an icon. I mean the show does go into her heartbreak and the troubles she had because obviously that was part of her life. But the story is a tribute, and it’s a positive tribute to her.”
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The 26-year-old singer, who was scouted for the role on Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, said she hopes the production receives a positive response from the public, especially because it has been a whopping 12 years in the making.
“At the time the writers thought it was too soon so I’m hoping that now is the right time,” she shared.
“I have been told I have to get rid of the Welsh accent. I have been watching videos, trying to copy her and do her justice really,” the singer added.
The show’s synopsis reads: “Diana, Princess of Wales is one of the greatest icons of our time. ‘Call Me Diana’ is a true tribute to the People’s Princess and a celebration of the undying love for this remarkable woman.
“Each spectacular scene, along with twenty original music tracks takes us through Princess Diana’s fascinating and emotional Royal journey.
“Starting with her untimely death,” it continues. “We travel back in time to witness the shy young woman battling through a broken fairy tale only to emerge as the confident world class superstar she became.
“Diana empowered women right across the globe. She changed the Monarchy, she fought back against the villains of the piece….
“The paparazzi, and her legacy will continue to be a positive force for years to come.
“This long-awaited spectacular musical, ‘Call Me Diana’, will bring tears of joy and unabashed smiles to audiences around the world.”
Call Me Diana begins tomorrow at Leicester Square Theatre.
