Jack Saunders, Kate McQuillan and Cast Photo by Time Stops Photography

Walking into the cozy space on Howard Street, I didn't quite know what to expect–especially when I found myself seated at a tiny table on the stage itself. But as an American royal lover who once dreamed of marrying a prince and woke up in the wee hours of the morning to cry over Princess Diana's funeral, I was game for a musical about her charitable yet tragic story. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the music–at Theo, played by a mighty three-piece band conducted by Kevin Zhou–was written by David Bryan, keyboardist for Bon Jovi, with book and lyrics (shared with Bryan) by Joe DiPietro, who also wrote All Shook Up, one of the most fun musicals I have ever seen.

The lights dimmed, the music boomed, and strobe lights and the Union Jack flashed, signaling the start of this nonstop, delightful musical. Kate McQuillan bursts onstage as Diana to open with "Underestimated," and the show never looses momentum. We hung on every beat of her story: meeting Prince Charles (Jack Saunders), the birth of her children, the unraveling of her marriage, and her evolution into a global humanitarian icon.

McQuillan is phenomenal as Diana. Sitting just feet away, I could see every subtle expression as she transformed from a shy, innocent and starry-eyed 19-year-old to a poised, wounded, and ultimately empowered woman. McQuillan's ability to lock eyes with audience members in crowd scenes is electric, bringing a sense of intimacy and empathy that feels true to the real Diana.

The supporting cast is equally strong and balances out McQuillan's powerful Diana. Saunders plays Charles with a prickly aloofness, hinting just enough at the burden of monarchy to make him occasionally sympathetic. Colette Todd's Camilla is an ideal antagonist–cool, composed, and clearly still holding Charles's heart. A particular standout is Jacqueline Grandt, who transitions seamlessly between a regal, reserved Queen and the tawdry romance novelist Barbara Cartland (Diana's step-grandmother), showing off impressive range. The ensemble deserves major credit for their stamina and versatility, playing everything from paparazzi to AIDS patients to specific people in Diana's short life, all while dancing and changing costumes at a dizzying pace.

Behind the scenes, the direction of Fred Anzevino–who passed away in April–and Brenda Didier (who also choreographed the show) is felt throughout. Together, they've transformed a Broadway flop (which closed after just 33 performances) into a joyful, engaging experience for Chicago audiences.

The design team keeps things simple but effective. Manuel Ortiz's set and Denise Karczewski's lighting complement the storytelling without overwhelming it. But it's Patty Halajian's costumes that truly shine. Diana's wardrobe is a spectacle in itself–she sometimes changes outfits multiple times within a single number–and Halajian nails every stage of her transformation with authenticity and flair. Charles, amusingly, appears to only swap his tie for much of the show, a sharp contrast to the iconic Diana.

I walked in with no expectations. I walked out smiling, talking with other audience members about how fun and surprisingly moving the experience was. I already have a mental list of friends I want to bring back for a second round–and to support this local theatrical gem.

Take my advice: whether you're a royal-watcher, a musical lover, or just looking for an entertaining night out, Diana at Theo Ubique is well worth your time.

Diana runs through July 6, 2025, at Theo Ubique, 721 Howard Street, Evanston IL. For tickets and information, visit Theo-U.com.