The Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas has hosted several top-notch presentations over the years, and this weekend was no exception as the debut of “Queen of the People’s Hearts’ made it long awaited debut. Created by Angela Knight Music Productions, it told the story of the late Princess Diana, the Princess of Wales. Featuring an eclectic mix of lovely opera singing that was a staple of Victorian-era England, to upbeat pop music that one would find reminiscent of the 1980’s club scene, the play was an engaging tale of a fairy tale romance torn apart for all the world to see.

Although it was postponed over a year due to the global pandemic, it was well worth the wait. From the opening overture to the cast ensemble singing “Queen of the People’s Hearts,” the entire production was enthralling and displayed a vivid picture of the stormy marriage of Princess Diana (Lori Sen) and Prince Charles (Spencer Adamson), who had great chemistry during their scenes. Whether it was showing the humble roots of Lady Di growing up with her sisters, to the relentless media coverage that hounded the royal couple’s every move, to her tragic demise in 1997, every scene captivated the audience with a brilliant display of elegance and gracefulness as they graced the stage.

One could almost imagine themselves being at Kensington Palace when the confrontation between Princess Diana and Mary Beth Kerley’s rendition of Camilla Parker Bowles took place, much to the delight of the crowd. Or, when Alizon Reggioli’s Queen Elizabeth II rebuffed Diana’s efforts to restore her marriage and subsequently took away the crown in an incredible dance number, a chill as cool as the September evening could be felt. The cast and crew did an amazing job of engaging the audience during each scene, showing actual newspaper clips from the press during the couple’s marriage.

Alas, it was the presentation of “Pie Jesus,” sung so beautifully as if an angel herself graced the stage, that painted the ideal image of who Princess Diana was to the hearts of millions still to this day. It was an amazing production and credit to Dr. Knight, Randal Dewey and director Cindy Oxberry for putting it together, along with the work of the cast who told the story well for all generations.

Her Highness would be proud.