Interview: Drag Race star Priyanka on performing in THE DIANA MIXTAPE
Concert. Biopic. Musical. The Diana Mixtape is a love letter to Diana. Directed and produced by Christopher D. Clegg, the show has its world premiere in London and Salford this summer. We caught up with Drag Race star Priyanka about performing in this brand new production.
What's the concept behind The Diana Mixtape?
Five Drag Queens all playing Princess Diana telling the infamous story of her life. There are no limits in the way we tell this story. The best part – it's all done through your favourite pop songs. I get to sing ‘Paparazzi’ by Lady Gaga and I’m READY!!!
Five of you are playing Diana?! How does that work?
I think it’s fair to say that we see Diana in all of us, right? Although she looks a certain way, she really relates to all of us. We take all the different things people love about her and split it up (because it does take five people to make the impact of Princess Diana come alive) and bring it to the stage!
What made you want to return to the UK to be a part of this production?
As a musician, singing pop songs multiple nights a week in one of my favourite countries IS the dream come true. I’ve been performing all over the world and now I can work on my art, skill, dancing, and singing in the West End?!?! Lucky me!
Which number in the show are you most excited for audiences to see?
ALL OF THEM. There’s so many twists and turns – but I think seeing our group numbers will be VERY powerful.
Why do you think Diana is such a beloved figure, particularly amongst the LGBTQIA+ community?
A rebel WITH a cause is not a rebel but just someone who dares to go against societal norms because it’s what’s right. How can you be a rebel if you are standing up for what’s right? That’s how we relate – it's the same! We’re seen as rebels, misfits etc but all we want is for people to feel love!
When did you first discover Diana as a crucial figure in modern history?
When EVERYONE was talking about her – my Grandma, teachers, parents, Aunties - it felt like there was no escaping Princess Diana. Now as an adult, I understand why – back then I was too young to understand the impact.
What made you first pursue drag as a career? Why do you think so many people from so many backgrounds have fallen in love with the art form since Drag Race became a hit?
I wanted to share my art. I wanted to sing. I wanted to dance. I was working at a kids’ TV station as a presenter and I loved it but it wasn’t....me. I found drag and found myself and now I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. People have fallen in love with drag because it’s everything people tell you not to be and we do it in beautiful costumes, wigs, make up and show everyone that it’s worth fighting for what you want!
Why should people in London or Salford come and see The Diana Mixtape?
You will never see anything like it!