By Howard Pousner

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Having pulled in sizable crowds for the King Tut and "America I Am" exhibits this year, the Atlanta Civic Center hopes a touch of royalty will keep attracting Atlantans and out-of-town visitors. "Diana: A Celebration," chronicling the life of the late princess of Wales, will open there Jan. 23.

Nine galleries will hold more than 150 objects, including Diana's royal wedding gown, 28 designer dresses, diamond tiaras and the original text of  her brother Earl Spencer's tribute to his sister at her Westminster Abbey funeral.

After Philadelphia, it's the second and final stop of a U.S. tour before the artifacts are returned to Althorp Estate, an hour and a half north of London.

Earl Spencer is expected to visit Atlanta and speak to an invitation-only event Jan. 21. He also introduces the exhibit's audio tour.

The show traces Lady Di's life, from her shy schoolgirl years, to her early career as teacher who captured the attention of Prince Charles, to her royal wedding, motherhood and her advocacy for various charities.

The Royal Wedding gallery features her gown, 25-foot-train, diamond tiara, veil, shoes and parasol. The exhibit also includes portraits of her ancestors, family heirlooms and jewelry, paintings, home movies filmed by her father, news video, photos and letters. Original copies of the musical score and lyrics of the Elton John-Bernie Taupin adaptation of "Candle in the Wind," including their handwritten notes and signatures, played by John at Diana's 1997 funeral, also will be displayed.

Exhibit preview

"Diana: A Celebration"

Jan. 23 -- June 13. $18.50 adults, $15.50 seniors and students 18 and older, $12 ages 6-17; free 5 and under. Tickets available beginning Wednesday at the Civic Center box office and Ticketmaster, 800-745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com. Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Ave. www.dianaexhibition.com .