Diana; Queen of Hearts
Diana; Queen of Hearts is an original musical from Malta written in 1999 about the life of Lady Diana Spencer, Princess of Wales (1961 - 1997). The musical is written by Joe Julian Farrugia with music by Joe Brown.
Produced by Kumpanija Teatru Rjal, the musical was performed for a number of times at the Oracle Theatre in Qawra, and then at the Catholic Institute Auditorium in Floriana.
The musical with original lyrics and music begins with the official announcement of the engagement between Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles, the heir to the throne. At that very start, the young sweetheart is already being continuously shadowed by the press. Her charming personality made her the new public darling even so when as a result of her marraige she became the country’s future queen.
Formality at the palace was too much for a Princess who loved mingling with people. She admits this even to Nick, a member of the press who was ever-present at her public occasions. Her drawing nearer to the crowds on many occasions prevented her husband, the heir to the throne, to be himself the centre of attraction. This made the Prince angry accusing her of being too much of a mannequin.
Moreover, at a time of continuous reports by the press claiming other love affairs for the Prince, the couple’s separation was announced. The public showed endless support to Diana both before and after their official divorce. She kept on touring the ever-adorable crowds showing her their love, without herself having a love for her own.
When the news of her sudden death arrives at the Palace and everyone there was ordered to remain silent without any show of sorrow, Charles is enraged and heavily grieved. The public shows its respects to their deceased dearest. On hearing the alleged role of the press in her death, they are furious at the journalists trying to report the proceedings. They also protest at the monarchy’s lack of homage.
Finally, the Queen addresses the country, and at the most fitting funeral, the public turns out to pledge its love for Diana, who although was never given the chance to become queen, will forevermore be the Queen in the people’s hearts.
Cast
| Character | Singer |
|---|---|
| Diana, Princess of Wales | Karen Polidano |
| Nick | Lawrence Gray |
| Prince Charles | Mark Doneo |
| Queen Elizabeth II | Leontine |
| Prince William (grown-up) | Andrew Zahra |
| Prince Harry (grown-up) | Christian Arding |
| Member of the Public 1 | Miriam Christine Borg |
| Member of the Public 2 | Ludwig Galea |
| Member of the Public 3 | Julie Zahra |
| Member of the Public 4 | Patrick Vella |
| Child 1 | Amy Brown |
| Child 2 | Brendan Borg |
| Child 3 | Julie Pomorski |