Dita Von Teese’s Diamonds and Dust at the Emerald Theatre – review

Burlesque meets the Wild West in Diamonds and Dust, the inaugural show taking place at London’s glittering new venue, the Emerald Theatre.

Presented by the legendary Dita Von Teese, who also stars as the mysterious Lady Luck, this thrilling fusion of burlesque, cirque, and cabaret invites us into a world of high glamour, feminine power, and spectacular performances.

Co-written by Tosca Rivola and Emma Hanley, the show is set around the untold story of notorious card dealer Miss Kitty LeRoy, as she tries to make her way in a man’s world and dares to tame Lady Luck on her own terms. The production features a cast of renowned performers from the burlesque, cirque and West End worlds.

Singer and Steps star, Faye Tozer, steps into the role of LeRoy, telling us a tale of rebellion and revenge. Tozer exudes sass and playfulness, showcasing quick wit and fun improvisation with the audience. She commands the stage with an alluring and charismatic presence. Having made the finals of Strictly Come Dancing, Tozer performed with ease during dance numbers to artists such as Kylie Minogue and Lana Del Rey, although it felt brief and left us wishing we’d seen more of her signature moves. Tozer also performs as a narrator, guiding the audience through an evening of astonishing acts.

The cast sparkle across the stage in fabulous costumes, featuring rhinestones, feathers and cowboy hats (designed by Jenny Packham, Jennie Quirk and Hood London). Phillip Gladwell’s lighting bathes the stage in dramatic strobes and colourful glows, evoking the feel of a superstar entrance with every reveal. The grand staircase and curtains sweeping up to unveil performers provides an element of luxury and mystery.

Emerald Theatre, a new cabaret-style venue, enhances the burlesque experience, dim lighting, cushioned seating and intimate table arrangements. The audience are welcomed with pre-show entertainment, including singers performing country classics, setting the tone for the main event.

Although the show’s structure relies more heavily on spectacle than a narrative plot, the performances are nothing short of breathtaking. From a spellbinding aerial duo to fire breathers lighting up the stage, each moment is designed to thrill!

Lady Lydia kicks off the night with an impressive acrobatic act on a rodeo that descends into the air. Manny Tsakanika performs a seductive chandelier routine that wouldn’t be out of place in Magic Mike Live, while Rivola delivers a remarkable, stunt-filled performance that leaves the audience in awe. Choreographed with precision and style by Matt Nicholson, Von Teese and Rivola, the production seamlessly blends traditional burlesque with country-inspired dances. The ensemble performs with perfect timing and a captivating energy.

Von Teese emerges like a vision; effortlessly glam, poised and powerful, as she appears on the stage in an amazing, pink crystal outfit. Her iconic cowgirl performance is captivating and full of… well, tease. She dazzles with rhinestone-studded chaps upon a mechanical bull, with the audience erupting in cheers. Von Teese’s signature vintage style, her elegance and magnetic presence prove why she remains the queen of Burlesque.

Diamonds and Dust is a glittering celebration, with a wonderful array of performers who embody confidence, style and empowerment. Whether you’re a fan of burlesque or discovering it for the first time, this fabulously glitzy show will certainly leave you entertained.