A memorable exhibition, “Diana, a Celebration,” is set to make its U.S. debut at the Museum of Art, Fort Lauderdale. The exhibition, chronicling both the public life and private side of Diana, Princess of Wales, opens Oct. 10 through Dec. 31.

The exhibit includes two diamond tiaras and other priceless family jewels and 28 dresses, suits and evening gowns designed by Versace, Valentino, Chanel, and Azagury, among others, and worn by the Princess during her public life, accompanied by photographs and designer details from the events where the outfits were worn.

The exhibit arrives from the Althorp Estate in England, the Spencer family’s 500-year-old ancestral home, where it has been on display since 1998. The exhibition showcases the Diana’s life and humanitarian work.

The 150 objects chronicle her life as a youngster, schoolgirl and athlete; as the shy kindergarten teacher who captured the hearts of the Prince and the public; as the young, ravishing royal bride; as the devoted mother, sister and daughter; and as the tireless charity advocate and spokeswoman. The strength of the Spencer women and their roots in the bucolic Althorp Estate form the backdrop for Diana’s formative years.

The Royal Wedding Gallery features her resplendent gown, diamond tiara, veil, and 25-foot train, shoes and parasol, and her bridesmaid’s dress. Also featured in the exhibition are portraits of her ancestors, family jewels, heirlooms, paintings, artifacts, and photographs. Home movies filmed by her father and scenes from her childhood, her engagement to Prince Charles and the events leading up to the Royal Wedding are remembered and animated with video, personal possessions, photographs personal correspondence.

One entire section of the exhibition is devoted to Diana’s energetic and multi-faceted public life and involvement in myriad charities and causes, including her pioneering efforts of those afflicted by AIDS, the care of the homeless and the tragic consequences of the unregulated use of land mines. A three-screened video presentation highlights the hundreds of associations that continue to benefit from her patronage and energetic dedication. The outpouring of grief at her untimely death is also addressed in a display of books of condolence and a space for reflection and remembrance. Highlights of the exhibition include:

The exhibition will be installed on the entire second floor of the Museum, approximately 10,000 sq.ft.

All profits generated to the Althorp Estate support the ongoing work of the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund. Since 1998, the Exhibition at Althorp has generated approximately $2 million for charities supported by the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fund. In Fort Lauderdale, Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center has been selected as the local charity to receive support from the Diana exhibition. CDTC, which promotes the health and well being of children with special health needs, has been recognized nationally for its work with children and HIV, and carries on the spirit of the works of Diana.

Tickets are $19.50 for adults, $16.50 seniors (62+), military personnel and groups of 15 or more, $10 for Museum members, $7.50 for children 6-12, $6 school groups. Kids five years old and under free. Tickets can be purchased by calling 1-877-787-7711 or locally at 954-462-0222 or may be purchased online at www.moafl.org/diana. Reservations will be booked in 30-minute intervals.

JCK