Diamonds and Dust at Emerald Theatre Review
Dita Von Teese in Diamonds and Dust. Photo by Chris Davis Studio
Written by Jenna for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
As a newbie to Burlesque, I was not sure what to expect from this new production at the gorgeous Emerald Theatre on Victoria Embankment. Diamonds and Dust, starring Faye Tozer of Steps fame and the legendary Dita Von Teese, is perfectly matched with this stunning venue, with its glamorous saloon feel and immersive low stage, with stairs on either side.
Faye Tozer is captivating as hostess Kitty Leroy, regaling us with her stories about life, love, and luck. Using clever poker metaphors, she tells the story of her various husbands and how she came to buy ‘the mint’, a drinking and gambling bar. Tozer is a charming and sexy quadruple threat with her drawling Texas accent, sweet singing voice, perfect-score-worthy dancing, and excellent comic timing. The story has an unexpected twist, which I felt made it all the more exciting.
Between the narrative, with themes of ‘the good, the bad and the lucky’ (co-written by Careena Melia and Emma Henley), are a number of impressive acts, including acrobatics, aerial performances, fire eating, dancing, and of course, Burlesque. If ever there was a show for gym inspiration, this is it; each performer is incredibly fit, and the choreography (by Von Teese and Matt Nicholson) is sexy yet innovative. Von Teese also directs the show alongside Tosca Rivola, and her signature style is evident throughout.
Dita Von Teese as Lady Luck showed us exactly why she is still the queen of burlesque with powerful yet feminine routines that captivated us all. Her sensual movements are utterly mesmerising, and her tiny waist and incredible figure look stunning in the costumes by global designer Jenny Packham with shoes by Christian Louboutin. The whole show is beautifully packaged, with sparkles and diamonds aplenty, a variety of different styles, and a special mention for the gorgeous pink curtain that descends during Von Teese’s performances. Set and lighting design by Philip Gladwell gives the whole show a feel of glitz, high glamour and feminine power.
The well-known songs are all chosen to perfectly match the acts, and the ones performed by Tozer are sung live and sound superb. The show feels intimate and immersive, with lots of audience participation and Tozer’s warm interactions with the crowd. What I enjoyed the most is that despite the regular stripteases, the show never feels ‘cheap’, it oozes sophistication and is a celebration of music, dance, storytelling, and female empowerment. There are also some very sexy male performers to keep everyone in the audience happy!
This is the perfect show for a fun night out with friends, an ideal way to begin or end a night on the town. Decadent dining packages are also available to enhance your evening further.
Diamonds and Dust plays at the Emerald Theatre until 28 September
★★★★★
