Pretty Woman: The Musical
Melbourne's Regent Theatre has been given the Hollywood treatment, with Pretty Woman: The Musical opening its season on Collins Street as the final stop of the show's first Australian tour. Based on the beloved 1990 film, the stage adaptation features a book by the movie's director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J.F. Lawton, an original score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, and direction and choreography by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell.
The story follows Vivian Ward, a sex worker on Hollywood Boulevard, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with wealthy businessman Edward Lewis. What begins as a week-long business arrangement slowly becomes something neither of them planned, as the pair challenge each other to want more from their lives.
Samantha Jade is incredible in the lead role of Vivian – a perfect choice for the lead role. If this performance is anything to go by, we expect it to be the first of many roles for Jade in productions to come. Opposite her, Ben Hall makes a great Edward Lewis; charting the character's growth as a man who seemingly has everything, yet is still searching for happiness.
The supporting cast is just as strong. Tim Omaji takes on the split role of Happy Man and Mr Thompson, with the former acting as a narrator of sorts – guiding the audience through the streets of Hollywood. It is as hotel manager Mr Thompson where Omaji truly shines though, with dance routines that take your breath away. Meanwhile, Michelle Brasier deserves some kind of best supporting actress recognition for her turn as Vivian's best friend Kit De Luca. Seeing Brasier in full form on a musical theatre stage is something special, and she makes the most of every moment she is given.
The score offers plenty of highlights across both acts. Luckiest Girl in the World and On a Night Like Tonight were among our favourites in Act 1, while Act 2 delivers with This Is My Life, I Can't Go Back and Long Way Home. The show also saves a treat for the finale, with Roy Orbison's Oh, Pretty Woman making its appearance and sending the audience out on a high. The costumes are a standout throughout, recreating the film's most recognisable looks while giving the ensemble plenty of glamour of their own. Turning this movie into a full stage production could not have been an easy task, but the result is magical.
Pretty Woman: The Musical is playing at Melbourne's Regent Theatre until 13 September. Tickets are available via the official website.
Photo Credit: Daniel Boud