Concert for Diana hit by problems
It was a splendid concert by any standards. At times the atmosphere was electric, despite the seating arrangements which limited numbers in the centre of the arena.
Of the two Princes, William looked trim and on form after his night at Clarence House with Kate Middleton. Harry, though, seemed awkward and subdued for once, and he had clearly put on weight. This could be explained by the news that he’s giving up smoking — again. At times he looked to be gasping for a fag. Maybe he could have done with a Mahiki menu too.
The smoking ban — it’s now prohibited in enclosed public places across the country — caused more problems in the dressing rooms. Lily Allen was said to have walked out at 6pm when told to stop lighting up. Such temperament! Could it have contributed to the missing finale?
There was also a hitch at the end when the planned mass finale of all the artistes was called off because of “technical difficulties”. Elton John did a few numbers, after a lacklustre “comedy” routine by Ricky Gervais of The Office. Then the whole event petered out with a video of Nelson Mandela saying nothing particularly new.
Nevertheless, there were seven hours of excellent entertainment before the anticlimax, with cheery Fearne Cotton brightening up the interludes of the BBC transmission with interviews and to-camera improvisations.
I spotted Mike Tindall rocking along with Zara Philips in one arm and an unknown female in the other. Diana’s sister, Sarah, and brother Charles were also singing along heartily to the older numbers.
All in all an impressive day considering the whole nation was on massive terrorist alert.
Well done William and Harry.
The concert acheived just what the Princes wanted to Capture the spirit of Diana two acts totally did that the Donny Osmond segment during the musical segment with the disabled children on stage also singing and the P. Diddy performance where he sang and spoke to Diana highlighted what most feel about Diana and how much she is truly missed. It was so great to see the Spencer side enjoying themselves especially Diana’s nieces and nephews. All in all despite the terror events it was truly a job well done.
By Trudie on July 2nd, 2007 at 1:24 pm
Not to get off the subject but BP has announced the pregnancy of Sophie!!! I have to laugh since Shake told me 3 weeks ago she was pregnant and now it has been confirmed after being an open secret but Congratulations to TRH are certainly in order.
By Trudie on July 2nd, 2007 at 2:58 pm
Let’s hope she doesn’t go through the same difficulties as before, nor have a child with the eye problems of Louise.
By John on July 2nd, 2007 at 3:01 pm
Ever since P Diddy’s friend B.I.G. was killed, Sean has been noticeably more in touch with his emotions during performances. Nevertheless, I was floored at his overwhelmingly magnetic and touching performance at the concert, when he spoke to Diana and personalized his song so movingly. I cannot stand rap music and don’t even like the milder hiphop (except for Will Smith’s early hits) but P Diddy’s performance was the outstanding portion of the concert for me. He sang from his heart in a way I will not soon forget.
I thought both Prince William and Prince Harry did a superb job of hosting the concert on what mut have been a very emotional evening. There is nothing in their background, including military training, that would have prepared them to speak to such a crowded stadium, and, through the miracle of television, to more than five million viewers world wide. I was very touched by Prince Harry’s message to the troops fighting in Iraq. Princess Diana’s darling sons rose to the level of her loving expectations!
By Gigi on July 2nd, 2007 at 4:20 pm
If I remember rightly, Gigi, P. Diddy used to be known by another name, and sang songs glorifying gun culture and the casual killing of those in other gangs. This culture also encourages the beating and raping of women, and regards them as second-class citizens.
However emotional this man was, I just can’t bring myself to applaud him for jumping on another bandwagon, and I doubt Diana would have wished to be associated with him.
I may be wrong, but if I’m not, why was he over here?
By John on July 2nd, 2007 at 4:35 pm
I don’t know about his early work, because I never listen to rap, ever. But I remember reading an article about artists who have changed because of shattering life experiences, and one was said to be Sean Combes, who apparently had a “come-to-Jesus” experience when a friend of his was murdered. None of the groups at the Concert for Diana were there for any other reason than that the Princes personally requested that they perform, so I assume that Prince William and Prince Harry find him and his music acceptable. There is good and bad in every form of music and artistic expression, John. I can only judge this musical artist by the performance P Diddy gave at Diana’s concert, which was commendable and spiritual.
By Gigi on July 2nd, 2007 at 5:58 pm
P Diddy was known as Puff Daddy and while in the rap world there is alot of violence he is known for mostly promotion of stars. J.LO would be no where if she hadn’t dated him. But the point is he is now slowly changing the face of rap and I still think his performance was outstanding.
By Trudie on July 2nd, 2007 at 8:21 pm
The concert was a great entertainement indeed, but this was the best way to pay tribute to her? I’m still not convinced. As for PDiddy, I agree with John with the fact that I’m not sure that Diana would have been glad to be associated with him. But strangely, I liked his performance. He was obviously very honored to be there, he transformed one of his old song, instead of singing one of his new ones, just to make publicity, like many others have done. Elton John was the touch of credibility of the concert. If I remember well, I think that Diana also liked Pavarotti and Dire Straits. Am I wrong? It would have been ever great if they would have been there, insted of these starlets who was invited by Wills and Harry, for themselves only. But afterall, they do what they want
By Lilyfromfrance on July 2nd, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Oh I have made so many mistakes in my comment. Sorry
By Lilyfromfrance on July 2nd, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Well, the little ’starlets’ invited by the princes were no doubt invited to keep the interest of the young’uns of today. I guess we old folks have to take that along with the good stuff that was presented!
So Sophie is pregnant? What a pleasant surprise! I do hope she has a healthy and safe pregnancy and happy outcomes! I really never expected them to try again. I’m glad they did though.
By On The Outside on July 2nd, 2007 at 8:48 pm
Oh, On The Outside, I feel so old now!
I was born at the same year as Harry, and I dont like any of the singers who were present at the concert! Maybe it’s me then? I must be reassured!
By Lilyfromfrance on July 2nd, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Ok, let’s sort this out. Duran Duran, Elton John, Tom Jones, Rod Stewart and the Ballet were invited to perform because they were favorites of Princess Diana. That is also the case with the Andrew Lloyd Weber set pieces. The “Any Dream Will Do” cast reflected Princess Diana’s interest in and concern for children. Some of the other artists, such as P Diddy, Joss Stone, Ricky Gervais, etc., were artists the young Princes admire and were undoubtedly added to the program to enhance the appeal for younger concert goers. This concert was to honor Diana but also to raise significant funds for her charities. It needed to be a viable concern.
By Gigi on July 2nd, 2007 at 9:33 pm
Hey relax sweet Gigi! It’s only a concert! And it’s finished. If it has brought a lot of money for charities, excellent then, but if I didn’t appreciate it, well thats my right and my business. I can’t praise singers that I don’t like just because they have accepted to perform
Wills and Harry had a great time. If people who were there and in front of tv had a great time too, then thats great. But it was just a good entertainment to me, not a decent homage. Definitively.
It is not very fair to say that Wills and Harry have made a great job, but to all the technicians, and the all people in the shadow who have made it possible
By Lilyfromfrance on July 2nd, 2007 at 9:53 pm
Apparently there is going to be a memorial service in August. I don’t know if it will be totally private or if it will be available to the public, but it might satisfy those with a desire for more of a homage to Princess Diana. Regarding the concert, I am not saying everyone had to enjoy it. I can’t stand Rod Stewart, Joss Stone or Ricky Gervais, so I muted during their portions of the concert.
I was planning to push the mute button through P Diddy’s performance, too, but I was getting another box of kleenex and by the time I got back to the TV, he was already performing and it sounded pretty nice. 
By Gigi on July 2nd, 2007 at 10:35 pm
I admit that I was very disappointed that Sir Elton John did not sing the version of “Candle in the Wind” that he sang at Princess Diana’s funeral. Maybe the speculation that he would do this, at the special request of the Princes, were just rumors.
By Gigi on July 2nd, 2007 at 10:37 pm
Well, if I recall correctly, he vowed he would never sing that song again - and it looks as though he is sticking to that. I don’t know if I blame him. How emotional it must have been for him at the time. If it had been me, I’d have been bawling my eyes out and would not have been able to finish.
And Lilyfromfrance - LOL - I didn’t mean to make you feel very old! If you’re Harry’s age - why, you’re just a baby yet!
I’m old enough to be the princes’ (and yours) mother! (a very young mother, mind you…)
By On The Outside on July 2nd, 2007 at 11:15 pm
I loved the Concert, the Princes did a wonderful job. I loved the Ballet and I actually think P Diddy was moving, he was a exciting presence to watch, I enjoyed his song. I loved all the ladies performances they were elegant, glamorous and sang great songs. Fergie, NellyF, Joss Stone, all so pretty,Lilly Allen, the other pretty blonde lady who sang “Unwritten, she was in a white short dress , also Sarah Bernhart(the lady who sang Andrew Loyd Webber’s songs, his ex-wife actually I think,was wonderful with Josh, the guy she sang with )and just everyone was fabulous. I loved DuranDuran and Elton was my favorite to open the show. The entire concert was absolutely stellar.
By mandy on July 3rd, 2007 at 1:05 am
Weel speaking for myself I truly enjoyed the concert!!! of the newer artist I loved Lilly Allen her smile song surely would have had Diana smile I have to say I really was not all that impressed with Joss Stone. Now I am going to try and find the Lilly Allen cd At least when she sang who could actually hear the words. Oh and Lilly My son is one year older than you and and my daughter three and they don’t care much for todays music perferring the older music and totally hate rap unlike my two 10 year old grandsons!!!
By Trudie on July 3rd, 2007 at 7:05 am
Thank you On The Outside and Trudie.
By Lilyfromfrance on July 3rd, 2007 at 9:25 am
Gigi, the memorial concert will be held in the smallish Guards Chapel round the corner from the Palace. All the top Royals will be there, including HM, and apparently Camilla is going too.
There has been some criticism of the venue (too small) and the guest-list (Camilla), but Diana’s sons are officers in the Household Cavalry and it’s their tribute. It would be hard not to invite their father’s wife.
I don’t think Chelsy or Kate will be there — that really would signal Royal weddings to come, so they’ll probably play it cool.
By John on July 3rd, 2007 at 9:53 am
I loved P. Diddy in this concert and I normally loathe his singing. I also did like Duran Duran, Sir Elton John and Nelly Futano (spelling?). I did not care for Joss Stone or Lily Allen and I’m afraid Tom Jones just creeped me out.
Does anyone know what Prince Charles and Camilla have had to say about all of this? I imagine it must be galling for Camilla to see Diana so revered even after all these years.
Here in the US, we had a montage of early Diana vid clips and I must say she was a very pretty child and obviously talented at dancing at an early age.
By Kat on July 3rd, 2007 at 11:18 am
Yes, Joss Stone seems to sing the same song over and over.
Lily Allen is cute but a bit of a tearaway, I think. Her father played a very camp Sheriff of Nottingham in the BBC’s recent Robin Hood series. She’s probably never recovered from that.
By John on July 3rd, 2007 at 12:52 pm
I don’t believe Camzilla
really feels put off by the homages paid to Diana - if she is, then well, she has a big problem. If the outpouring of grief at the time of her death was any indicator, she should not be surprised that 10 years later people still miss her. Diana is a tough act to follow and Camzilla can’t even come close to Diana’s magnetism.
Whether she likes it or not, Diana is the boys’ mother. They have very sweet and dear memories of her and miss her still. She would be wise to steer clear of that.
By On The Outside on July 3rd, 2007 at 1:52 pm
Camzilla can never hope to achieve the love of the people like Diana. I still can’t believe she has the gall to attend the memorial service. On the other hand there is news coming out about the after party and Darling Williams treatment of Kate. First he ignored her among one report then he goes up to her kisses her while grabbing her breast. That to me says he is starting to treat her like a sl** not very gentlmanly of him while every one reports nasty things about Harry he picked up Chelsy gave her a kiss and didn’t leave her side. IMO William is the one who needs to grow up. Harry is definitly not only a Prince but a real gentleman.
By Trudie on July 3rd, 2007 at 10:31 pm
Well Trudie, if Camzilla didn’t go to the memorial service, then people would be wagging their tongues about that. I guess this is where she cannot win no matter what she does.
If those reports are true about William, then he deserves a big slap on the face from Kate, and if she’s smart - she’ll do it. She doesn’t deserve to be treated like some slut and he’s well old enough to know that.
By On The Outside on July 3rd, 2007 at 10:48 pm
Can I ask, Trudie, where you are getting your information? I do read a few of the UK papers and tabloids, and I’m not seeing anything on William not being the gentleman he’s made out to be in public. We have had rave reviews here in the US regarding him and Harry in their interview on the American news - I must say they both came across as articulate and intelligent young men.
By Kat on July 4th, 2007 at 12:19 am
Lily, I just read an article about Luciano Pavarotti, which says that he is dying of pancreatic cancer and no longer performs. Apparently he still teaches but rarely leaves his villa.
By Gigi on July 4th, 2007 at 4:18 am
Kat I’m American and there are several sites you can go to for Royal news type in unofficial british royal family and then scroll down for the etoile site or go to marilyns royal blog which also has links that is how i found this wonder site a couple of years ago. also check out the royalist site. John I hope I’m not infringing on you by promoting others i’m just answering a ? I hope you do not take offense.
By Trudie on July 4th, 2007 at 5:59 am
Kat, many of those sites pick up on rumours and tittle-tattle which are often not true or just an impression of some drunk in a bar. Here I use reliable sources and filter out the rubbish.
Best to stick to the main newspaper sites … and Royal Anecdotes, of course.
By John on July 4th, 2007 at 6:08 am
Oh, too bad for Pavarotti, Gigi. Anyway, even if he was in good health, I doubt he would have come at the concert. Wills and Harry should have paid 10 wild boars and a massive marmite of pasta for that. Too expensive.
As for the memorial, Wills and Harry wont ban Camilla of it. They have made the maximum to appear as young mature intelligent nice comprehensive men on their last interview. If they ban her then all would disappear. Despite the sad impact that this woman had on their mother, it would appear like mean spirited to ban her. Afterall they say that as long as their father is happy, it’s ok. And obviously they don’t give a damn about her anyway. And people seem to forget that she is the wife of the future king of England (on the papers only, Wills will be the next ofcourse). So let’s her going to the memorial and let’s watch her receiving rotten tomatoes from Diana’s most rabid fans
By Lilyfromfrance on July 4th, 2007 at 10:09 am
I really find it hard to believe that William would treat Kate like that, to do that he would have to have no respect for her at all. And i don’t think she has done anything to deserve that derisory attitude.
Anyway i don’t think Kate would take it. She has way too much self respect to allow him to behave like that.
I do hope they decide what they are doing fairly quickly as i don’t think it does her reputation any good to be considered as an easy lay. I believe that they are back together and so they are just acting as a couple but she should be worth enough to have it acknowledged in public. I understand that they think they are doing the right thing by keeping it quiet but really it’s not working out like that.
They should go that wedding openly as a couple and not as friends and if they are not a couple William shouldn’t go and Kate should get on with her life, before she gets tarnished by unsavoury tags like those above.
By Eliza on July 4th, 2007 at 12:23 pm
Yep Eliza. And I find it weird and ridiculous the people who want to believe these rumours about a bad treatment from Wills, while they have no proof, but they are convinced that, when there are stories about a reconciliation, even when there are photos, then it’s all rubbish for them. I agree with you Eliza. I think they are back together and keep it quiet. But for the moment I dont think it’s really serious. But at the opposite I think it is more than being friends. Maybe they are just playing. It’s summer. I can’t see Wills waking up in the morning and deciding to break up with his long term girl while he invited her at his parade just weeks ago. He just needed space. I was convinced that he was in love with someone else, or at least he believed he was in love, and I was wrong. I havent see anybody with him since the split, even these little one moment girls that he use to found in clubs.
Kate plays a wise game. No new boyfriend, new clothes which show more flesh than before, more confident. Never mind if the press want to show her like a girl for one night. It’s Wills who decides.
By Lilyfromfrance on July 4th, 2007 at 1:17 pm
Lily, we both hope the same thing but i agree with you if they are back together it isn’t fully back on, just as you say, they are playing, fooling around.
If they do end up together this fooling around of these weeks will be forgotten but i do worry that if they don’t end up together Kate will be painted as this desparate woman who clung on way past her sell by date. It would be much cleaner from her point of view if they either become a proper couple or break up.
By Eliza on July 4th, 2007 at 1:41 pm
Kate would sound like the desperate dumped girl but Wills would also sound like a cad. They will go to a wedding together, in the end of August, if I remember well, so their little game can continue all the summer
Im not sure that it would be the best solution to ask something serious, like an engagement or something, to a man who seems to be lost in his feelings and needs space. I think that behind the screen, he is a man who knows exactly what he wants. He is just bored of the pressures. But I could be wrong.
By Lilyfromfrance on July 4th, 2007 at 1:58 pm
John Forgive me but the etoile site has all the major news outlets and that is where I read the story not sure which paper it was either the Sun of the Mail but the stories are from the BBc. Times the official monarchy site etc.
By Trudie on July 4th, 2007 at 9:31 pm