When you think of classic romantic comedies, Pretty Woman is right up there with the best of them, isn’t it? The iconic 90s film has now been brought to life on stage, and it’s a must-see for any Pretty Woman fans. The production is at the Alexandra Theatre, running until Saturday 24th August, but you’ll have to be quick to book tickets, it’s a popular one.
If you’re familiar with the film (and who isn’t!?), you’ll know the plot inside out. Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman, meets Vivian Ward, a vivacious Hollywood Boulevard “working girl,” and what follows is a whirlwind romance that’s as heartwarming as it is entertaining. The stage adaptation stays true to the original, but with the added flair of live music (Bryan Adams & Jim Vallance), great comedy (I’m looking at you Ore Oduba and Noah Harrison), sensational vocals (Natalie Paris – just wow) and performances that truly capture the essence of the characters we all know and love (Oliver Savile and Amber Davies).
This is one of those shows where it’s hard to pick out just one or two stars of the show. This show is full of talent. The chemistry between Edward (portrayed with suave sophistication and a little more sex appeal than Richard Gere) and Vivian (a character you can’t help but fall in love with) was electric.
You had the hotel manager (Ore Oduba) and hotel porter (Noah Harrison) who both had the entire audience giggling away throughout the production.
The score, written by the legendary Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, featured tender ballads and catchy musical numbers, all performed by a live orchestra and with some sensational vocals from the cast. Kit (Natalie Paris) had the audience in the palm of her hand as she sang. There’s definitely some Lady Gaga vibes from her, and her performance of ‘Rodeo Drive’ in the first half was super. I wasn’t surprised to see in the programme that Natalie is part of a girl band SVN, made up on the original West End Queens of Six the Musical.
The whole show is filled with positives. From the stage design, transferring easily from the Boulevard Streets, to boutique shops of Rodeo Drive and Edward’s penthouse. To the costumes being spot on with Vivian’s red dress every bit as stunning in real life as it was on the big screen.
Unsurprisingly, the theatre was filled with a full standing ovation for the show. Pretty Woman the Musical is a real feel-good production, reminding you that dreams really can come true!
Book your tickets here.
Disclaimer: I was invited along to the press evening. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.