Energetic Pretty Woman is a must-see

REVIEW: Pretty Woman The Musical

Fans of the hit nineties' film, Pretty Woman, are in for a real treat with the stage musical, touring the UK now.

Set in Beverly Hills against the stunning backdrop of Hollywood, it tells the story of Vivan Ward (played by Amber Davies) who, while trying to earn the night’s rent on Hollywood Boulevard through prostitution, is picked up by billionaire Edward Lewis (Oliver Savile) asking for directions.

Diehard fans will be pleased to know the performance stays faithful to the film. So in his Lotus Esprit, Lewis returns to famous hotel the Beverly Wilshire and asks Vivian to stay the night.

For $3,000 she agrees to stay the whole week and her world is changed forever. She leaves behind a life in the oldest profession and begins to experience the glamour and style of a billionaire’s girlfriend. However, Ms Ward soon finds out that it’s not all strawberries and champagne and struggles to adapt to high society and avoid Edward’s lawyer, Phil Stuckey. 

Ben Davey is fantastic in this role as he encapsulates the greed and selfishness of Stuckey, savouring the destruction of Morse’s company as he is about to receive a $15-million bonus as well as trying to force himself upon Vivian when Edward is out of the room. 

Alfredo and Violetta, played by Josh Damer Jennings and Lila Falce-Bass, both added exceptional operatic performances to the play. Natalie Paris was unforgettable as Kit de Luca, pulling off some astonishingly long notes.

Standout ballroom dance scenes from Mr Thompson and Giulio the bell boy brought raucous laughter. Ore Oduba's charismatic performances, doubling as Happy Man and Thompson, the hotel manager, delighted the audience. And Noah Harrison captured hearts as Guilio.

This energetic show is perhaps not for all the family, but older kids will still have a great time, and everyone was on their feet for the encore classic Pretty Woman. 

Pretty Woman the Musical is a must-see show. With diversity of music and seamless transitions on top of a remarkable set and cast, Pretty Woman has it all. And it certainly does the film justice.