Interview: Katie Dunsden and Didi Derriere on alternating lead roles in DIAMONDS AND DUST
London's brand-new Emerald Theatre has opened its doors with the world premiere of Diamonds and Dust, a dazzling production directed by Dita Von Teese and Tosca Rivola. We got the lowdown from Katie Dunsden, who alternates the role of Miss Kitty Le Roy with Faye Tozer, and Didi Derriere, who alternates the role of Lady Luck with Dita Von Teese.
Diamonds and Dust promises a high-octane theatrical experience. Can you tell us what makes it unique?
Katie: There is truly nothing like Diamonds and Dust in the West End right now. It brings musical theatre and burlesque together in a way that’s never been done before.
Didi: This show is very unique as it marries theatre together with burlesque and circus; there is something for everyone and is filled with surprises and jaw-dropping moments.
Katie, what attracted you to the character of Miss Kitty LeRoy?
When I first read the script, I was instantly drawn to Kitty. There are so many delicious elements to her that I couldn’t wait to explore. I was so empowered reading the script, getting to tell this story of this real woman who was extremely ahead of her time. Getting to play Kitty is a real dream, getting to sing, dance and tell this story is a real treat. She barely leaves the stage and I love the challenge of that!
Didi, what attracted you to the character of Lady Luck?
Lady Luck is such a fun character to play, she holds all the power and her energy is very easy to channel into the art form of burlesque. She is the ultimate strong empowered woman and is glamorous beyond measure.
The costumes for this production look seriously impressive. Do you have a favourite outfit?
Katie: They are all sensational. My personal favourite Kitty costume is a white corset. In Act 2, it is so beautiful… however, I’d be lying if I didn’t mention the Lady Luck costumes, without a shadow of a doubt the most gorgeous costumes in the West End right now!
Didi: It would be very hard to choose a favourite costume as Lady Luck’s costumes in this show are iconic. They are absolute show stoppers.
Katie, can you walk us through a typical performance day in the life of a West End alternate?
So, as an alternate, you have your set of scheduled shows per week, so on the days I’m not performing, I like to really reset and look after myself. Whether I’m on stage or not I always start the day with coffee!
I like to move my body and check in with my voice early in the morning and make sure everything is feeling good! I like to ease in with a yoga flow and build up to more strength training followed by a gentle vocal warm-up and a big breakfast! Even if I’m not performing I like to wake my body and voice up and be prepared!
I usually get to the theatre a little early. I like to feel calm and prepared, whether that’s getting ready to go on or just catching up with the girls! If I’m not performing, I like to watch the show or sometimes run through the show backstage to keep it fresh and in the body! If I know I’m performing, I like to arrive early, go through anything I need, thoroughly warm-up and get a face on and go!
Didi, how different is Diamonds and Dust to previous burlesque shows you've been a part of?
Diamonds and Dust is unlike any other burlesque show I’ve been part of. I love how the show is built around the story of Miss Kitty Leroy’s life and how so many different artistic disciplines come together to create this masterpiece production.
How do you hope audience members will feel after seeing Diamonds and Dust?
Katie: I think every single person should feel empowered. And hopefully like they’ve had a cracking night out! The show is so much fun to watch, it is so interactive, no matter where you’re sitting you feel a part of it!
Didi: Audience members will feel thoroughly entertained, inspired and will definitely want to come back for more.
Diamonds and Dust is now playing at the Emerald Theatre, with further info here.
