Diamonds and Dust

Dita Von Teese Presents – Diamonds and Dust

A five-star fusion of circus, theatre and glamour, prepare to be dazzled.

This is an exciting performance for many reasons: Faye Tozer, Dita Von Teese, and not least, a brand-new performance space, the Emerald Theatre in London’s Wild West End. Not only is the venue new, but the style is original too, a fusion of burlesque, circus, and a dash of musical theatre. Diamonds and Dust brings glamour, grit, and vintage sparkle to the Wild West End.

Faye Tozer plays our charismatic host, Miss Kitty LeRoy. Through direct narration, she recounts tales from her life, and death, peppered with the lessons she’s picked up along the way. Tozer sets the tone beautifully with a rootin’ tootin’ accent that never wavers. She returns to the stage in a different costume each time, sometimes changing right before our eyes. The set features a central revolve, which is particularly effective with the audience seated on three sides in a diamond thrust. What truly impressed me was that the revolve doesn’t merely turn, it also rises and lowers to enhance sightlines. I’ve never seen this done before, and I absolutely loved it.
Tozer delivers a great performance of Midnight Ride, with wonderful choreography by Matt Nicholson and Associate Choreographer Debbie Paul. There are plenty of other songs you’re likely to recognise too, and every musical moment feels tightly executed and purposeful.

If you think this is just another run-of-the-mill burlesque show, think again. This production is outstanding. Every element is a hit, and transitions between acts are seamless. The direction is tight, the pacing spot-on, and the production values are high across the board.

With a headliner like Dita Von Teese, there’s little I can say that won’t already be expected. Her performance is elegant, refined, and impeccably choreographed. What elevates it even further is a mesmerising moment where she rides a quilted velvet mechanical bull on a raised section of the stage. As she performs, the entire platform, steps and all, glides smoothly forward, creating a seamless and visually stunning effect.

Tosca Rivola (Creator, Co-Writer, Director, and Choreographer), performing as the Gold Digger, offers something truly captivating with the cyr wheel. In one particularly striking moment, she sits motionless at its centre while the wheel spins around her, an incredible display of poise and control. Of course, we’re also treated to the expected tricks, splits, and spins that leave the audience wide-eyed. But the real show-stopper? After some flirtatious lasso work, out comes a whip. And wow, she really knows how to use it. Whether cracking it in the air, on the floor, or… well, I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say the audience participation is both surprising and lively.

Sitting in the front row, you’re right in the thick of it. At one point, a performer swung from a chandelier directly overhead. It’s worth noting that there’s truly something for everyone here. The male performers dazzle with strength and sculpted physiques, while the female cast showcases extraordinary flexibility, balance, and grace.
One act I’d never encountered before was the ‘reverse tease’. Instead of undressing, a silhouetted group of performers creatively and sensually dress one another. It was unexpectedly playful and wholly original.

Jenny Packham, Couture Costume Designer ensured costumes throughout are an absolute feast for the eyes. From vintage underwear sets with more removable bits than I can politely mention, to rhinestones, sequins, and fringed flourishes, every detail glitters. Even the embroidery on the shirts sparkles under the lights. Yes, there are cowboy boots, plenty of them. The male performers confidently tucking their trousers into them. It’s a bold choice, but in this world of wild west glamour, and show biz it works.

Adding yet another layer of polish is the show’s partnership with Charlotte Tilbury. This collaboration brings high-end beauty to the stage and reinforces the show’s commitment to luxury, elegance, and flawless presentation. You can also have enjoy some Sweet Gwendoline French Gin from Dita Von Teese in whichever way you feel fit.

This production has it all, West End-level choreography, Big Top-style stunts, and Vegas showgirl flair. Everything feels a notch more luxurious than your average night out. Instead of typical merchandise stalls, there’s a boutique-style gift shop. Hosts circulate offering drinks and engaging patrons in a playful card game. Even the drink options are elevated, they were serving single malt Jack Daniel’s, if that gives you a sense of the vibe. As the audience filters in, a live singer and guitarist provide a warm, intimate atmosphere.

Seating is wonderfully varied: cabaret tables, bar stools, sofas, benches, or tucked-away nooks for those who prefer to observe from a distance. You can sit in the heart of the action or choose somewhere quieter. The layout mirrors the show itself, personal, playful, and full of character.
This isn’t just a show. It’s an experience, and one that redefines what West End nightlife can look like.

credit Chris Davis Studio