Based on the 1989 film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, Pretty Woman has been re-born as a musical with a blazing rock score written by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, the duo behind some of the biggest pop songs of the last thirty years, including Summer of 69 and Everything I Do (I Do It For You). But don’t expect to hear either of these tracks in this feel-good show, which is currently on at Leeds Grand Theatre. The emphasis is very much on a new set of songs written specifically for this production.
Pretty Woman The Musical
As a newcomer to Pretty Woman, I had no idea what to expect. What I did discover was a love story that is emotional, funny, engaging, and entertaining. All these elements come alive via a brilliant and talented cast led by Amber Davies, who plays lost soul Vivian Ward, and Oliver Savile, who shines in the role of ruthless businessman Edward Lewis.
Edward hires sex worker Vivian to be his companion for a week of business meetings in Los Angeles, where the couple stays at his favourite penthouse. Facing the threat of being thrown out of her rented accommodation, Vivian badly needs money, something Edward has in abundance. As the show progresses, a real chemistry develops between the two lovers, climaxing in a finale that will be no surprise to those familiar with the film version.
It’s a fast-moving show with a number of other strong characters. Natalie Paris, as Vivian’s friend Kit De Luca, lends a bundle of attitude and energy to her role, reminding me in look, style and manner of the singer P!nk. Noah Harrison also delights as bellboy Giulio – his comic timing and facial expressions bringing some much-needed humour to the evening in exactly the right moments. Ore Oduba, Strictly Come Dancing champion 2016, plays several characters: Happy Man and hotel manager, Mr Thompson and, the scenes where he gets to display his dancing techniques are particular highlights.
A pretty good thing
Opera might not be something you expect to hear in a modern musical. Yet, surprisingly, the scene where Josh Damer-Jennings and Lila Falce-Bassa (as Alfredo and Violetta respectively) give a rendition of an aria from La Traviata was a real gift, lifting the whole evening to a higher level.
Otherwise, some of the original songs are rather forgettable but there are still some strong numbers. Anywhere But Here and I Can’t Go Back, performed by Davies with her powerful vocal prowess, being outstanding moments. She performs with a soulful edge that touches the heartstrings. And anyone expecting to hear the Roy Orbison hit Pretty Woman will not be disappointed –it is saved until the very end of the night.
A simple but effective stage set, designed by David Rockwell, takes the audience from palm-tree lined Hollywood boulevards to Beverly Hills penthouse with ease, whilst the 1980’s costumes styled by Tom Rogers are faithfully reproduced from the film version.
I left the Leeds Grand Theatre wanting to see the show again for another dose of the feel-good factor the show instills. For a night to take you away from everyday troubles, Pretty Woman sure is a pretty good thing.
Runs until Saturday 25 May 2024 at Leeds Grand Theatre.
