A new play at Park Theatre tells the story behind the now notorious interview between Princess Diana and Martin Bashir.

Exploring the subject, the journalist, and the broadcaster that aired it, The Interview asks tough questions about whether it now has no legitimacy because of the way it came about.

It's the latest current affairs-based drama by journalist Jonathan Maitland, who has previously seen plays about Boris Johnson and Jimmy Savile staged at the Finsbury Park venue.Ham & High: The Interview draws on footage of the BBC interview that didn't make the final cut and transcripts of what was said off camera.The Interview draws on footage of the BBC interview that didn't make the final cut and transcripts of what was said off camera. (Image: Original Theatre)

Maitland, who worked with Bashir at the BBC and ITV for several years, had access to footage of the interview that did not make the final cut, and transcripts of what Diana said off camera.

He said: “The things that led to the famous interview and the events that came after it revealed much about our country and its institutions. It’s definitely the stuff of drama and I can’t wait to see our superb cast and brilliant director bring it all to life."

The 1995 Panorama interview was watched by millions and shocked the world with its revelations of Diana's and the future King's infidelity alongside important issues about bulimia, post natal depression, and self-harm.Ham & High: The late Princess of Wales aired issues of infidelity, self harm, bulimia and post natal depressionThe late Princess of Wales aired issues of infidelity, self harm, bulimia and post natal depression (Image: PA)

But decades later it emerged that Bashir had used underhand tactics to win the Princess' trust - including forging bank documents showing members of the Royal household were selling stories.

Prince William took the 'firm view' that however true, the interview that had stoked his mother's paranoia and isolation should never be aired again.

Alastair Whatley, artistic director of the play's producers Original Theatre said they anticipate a play that "gets London talking," and examines journalistic ethics, what can be justified in the pursuit of truth, and whether we are ever in control of our own narrative?Ham & High: Actor Yolanda Kettle plays Diana Princess of Wales in The InterviewActor Yolanda Kettle plays Diana Princess of Wales in The Interview (Image: Courtesy of Original Theatre)

Olivier Award-nominated Michael Fentiman (Amelie, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Loot), who directs, said: "Jonathan Maitland is a writer of great integrity and bravery and it’s been an honour to be trusted with his play."

Starring Tibu Fortes as Bashir, and Yolanda Kettle as the Princess of Wales, the world premiere of The Interview runs from 27 October to 25 November. Tickets are on sale now from the Box Office on 020 7870 6876.