“I'm loving every second,” exclaimed Diana Vickes at the gala night ‘after party’ for the Rise And Fall Of Little Voice held in a swanky London bar.

By now she's changed into a long cream party dress with killer heels, and her trademark hair and make-up is back.

As she walked into Axis bar, further along the Strand from the Vaudeville Theatre, a round of applause filled the room. Even Marc Warren, Diana’s experienced co-star clapped her arrival.

“I've had such an amazing time so far, and everyone has been supportive,” she said.

“I have been practicing so hard,” she added. “I got recordings of all of the stars that I impersonate and just sat there in front of the telly and watched and mimicked them over and over until I got it just right.”

But the best bit about the official opening night for Diana, was that her mum Ann was there watching.

“It's so great to see mum here. I can’t wait to spend some time with her, I miss her.”

At the party Diana mingled with fans and signed autographs like a true professional, every bit the star of the show.

Diana adds: “It's hard work, it really is. But I am really enjoying myself, it’s the best!”

Fellow X Factor runners up JLS, and Ruth Lorenzo were in the audience to support their friend.

Oritse from JLS said: “Diana was brilliant, her voice has really progressed from X Factor.”

Ruth added: “I've seen her three times now and I cry every time. She's amazing I love her so much.”

No-one was more proud than Diana's mum, Ann, who was in the audience accompanied by family and friends.

“It's just brilliant. I love the last song when she sings in her own voice.

"When she was lifted up with all those lights behind her it was magical,” she said with tears in her eyes after the show.