The Broadway and West End musical makes for a lovely and nostalgic viewing – but it feels as though the story is rushed a little bit.
It is never easy to take a beloved film and bring it to the stage, but thanks to some memorable songs and strong performances from the cast the UK touring production of Pretty Woman has plenty to recommend it – even if it feels at times the story and relationship between the central characters is rushed through slightly.
Whisking audiences to Los Angeles, the story follows that of sex worker Vivian and business man Edward who in need of a companion for a week (without any romantic attachments) to help him through business events and so offers her $3000 to do this. Although it is purely a business relationship, both find their feelings growing romantically whilst going on their own individual journeys about following their dreams. It may be on the surface a romantic comedy, but as this production shows if you look deeper there is something more to it than that.
For those who love the film, the musical retains many of the classic lines from the film (not surprising when it features a book by Garry Marshall and J.F Lawton both of whom were involved with the original film) and there is a slight sense that the more fresher moments built in the show are rushed through slightly to take audiences back to reassuring familiarity of the original scenes. It would also have to be said that perhaps the emphasis on the musical is more romantic aspects of the story is enhanced, while the darker sides toned down slightly.
The whole show really takes the audience back to the 1980’s, the vibrancy of the costumes of Tom Rogers costumes and the way in which David Rockwell’s scenic design changes the location effortlessly to ensure the audience completely feels like they are in Hollywood and engaged with the story unfolding.
This being said, there is still plenty to be enjoyed throughout the show thanks to the performances of the cast who all manage to put their own take on the well known characters. Amber Davies as Vivian has a real exuberance to her performance with plenty of strength to it that is impressive from start to finish, enhanced further by her excellent renditions of songs such as ‘ Luckiest Girl in the World’ and ‘I Can’t Go Back’ – just two highlights from the score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance that is both vibrant and romantic from start to finish.
Amber Davies is well matched by Oliver Savile as Edward, who really captures Edward’s personal journey of growth from being cold business man to someone who re-discovers what life could and should be about. It is a really well thought out and detailed performance, while his renditions of ‘You & I’ and ‘Freedom’ are filled with emotion and really pack a punch.
But they are also surrounded by some excellent support in the form of Curtis Patrick in a multitude of roles including Happy Man and Mr Thompson the hotel manager. He fully embraces each character he plays and is a really joyful presence in the show. Natalie Paris as Kit also shines with plenty of opportunity for her powerful vocals to shine – her voice was really made for these songs, while she brings out the feistiness and loyalty of the character is beautifully.
Nostalgic, entertaining and romantic, Pretty Woman the Musical is enjoyable from start to finish. Romance aside, it does remind us of the importance of independence and following your dreams.
By Emma Clarendon
Pretty Woman the Musical continues to play at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking until the 2nd December 2023. To find out where it is travelling to next click here.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐