Dita Von Teese's 'Diamonds and Dust' to open at new West End venue

Dita Von Teese presents a story about the Wild West’s most notorious card dealer, finding her way in a man's world. The show will also feature experiential dining and late-night entertainment.

Burlesque star Dita Von Teese will make her directorial debut and star in the world premiere of Diamonds and Dust at the West End's newest venue the Emerald Theatre this summer. Previews start on 16 June, with opening night on 3 July.

Together with the show's creator Tosca Rivola, Dee Parsons, and Julian Stoneman, Von Teese presents a story about the Wild West’s most notorious card dealer, finding her way in a man's world. The production promises "a thrilling blend of Old West lore, vintage casino culture, and high-stakes stunts", as well as an evening of experiential dining, specially curated cocktails, and late-night entertainment including DJ sets on weekend nights.

Von Teese will play the role of Lady Luck in the initial opening weeks, showcasing her original costumes and signature props. She will then return to join her company monthly for in-person performances.

Von Teese said, “I am looking forward to welcoming London into the exciting glamour-verse we’ve been carefully preparing. Bringing together my love for Americana, haute style and all things burlesque, we can’t wait to share our theatrical production with London’s Glittering West End.”

Rivola added, “After nearly a decade of work to galvanize high-calibre show concept, an iconic lead and collaborator like Dita Von Teese, necessary investment and the sheer diligence it took on behalf of my incredible team on the ground in London to not only open a show, but an entire West End Theatre, I am elated to finally focus on creating an incredible show alongside Dita Von Teese - a dream come true! As a first generation American, Diamonds and Dust is my bittersweet love letter to the American West for all of its romance and peril”

The creative team includes conception and direction by Tosca Rivola and Dita Von Teese, story by Tosca Rivola and Emma Henley, choreography by Matt Nicholson, Dita Von Teese, and Tosca Rivola, musical supervision by Lewis Carnie, set and lighting design by Philip Gladwell, sound design by Gareth Owen, and millinery by Hood London. British designer Jenny Packham designs Dita Von Teese's costumes, while her footwear is designed by Christian Louboutin.

Further casting and creatives are to be announced.

Check back for Diamonds and Dust tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Photo credit: artwork for Diamonds and Dust. (Artwork courtesy of production)