After an incredible run, on Broadway, the three-time Audience Choice Award-winner Pretty Woman: The Musical is now on tour at the Ohio Theatre in Columbus, OH. This is one of Hollywood’s most beloved stories of all time, a Cinderella cross Romeo and Juliet love story, Vivian and Edward are two very unlikely soulmates who must overcome all the odds to find each other… and themselves. Experience the moments you love from the movie and get to know these iconic characters in a whole new way, in this dazzlingly theatrical take on the now classic love story of the 90s. Are you ready to fall in love all over again?
Big romance and big fun! – Broadway.com
Now, 30 years later, Pretty Woman: The Musical still Dazzles! – Deadline
The musical is almost a word-for-word, outfit-for-outfit retelling of the 1990 film Pretty Woman, written by J. F. Lawton and directed by Garry Marshall. Starring Olivia Valli as the free-spirited end-of-the-80s streetwalker with Cinderella dreams, Vivian Ward, a prostitute one can never imagine turning a trick. She is hired by, the Mega-rich, but emotionally stunted, disaffected, and ruthless corporate raider with some big daddy issues, businessman Edward Lewis, played by Adam Pascal. Vivian is to be his escort for several business and social functions, and as their relationship develops over the course of her week-long stay with him, Vivian teaches to Edward to unleash his inner child and contribute to society instead of selling it for parts. Basically, turning his life upside down and reinventing herself in the process, all while fending off the unwanted advances of Edward’s creepy business partner Philip Stuckey. Eventually Vivian realizes she deserves so much better than these two and resolves to move on.
The show has been updated a little from the 90s movie, and while the musical’s setting remains in the 80s with the big-hair and the Brian Adams banging away, Vivian’s agency and control over her unsavory occupation with songs that message “this isn’t me” and “I can’t go back,” showing she doesn’t need anyone else to save her.
Review of Pretty Woman: The Musical, starring Samantha Barks & Andy Karl, on Broadway by Sarah Downs for The Ney York Theatre Guide.
Director and Choreographer Jerry Mitchell faithfully recreates the film, adding a few touches of his own. I particularly appreciate his nod to the Ascot number from Pretty Woman’s theatrical predecessor, My Fair Lady. Mitchell also handles the intimate scenes with just the right humor, decorum and passion, approaching the unfolding love story without hitting us over the head. He does his best to enliven the stage by keeping the excellent chorus dancing almost constantly — a necessity when the music is so banal.
Pretty Woman has been sold as a modern Cinderella story, but in truth it has much more in common with Romeo and Juliet, complete with balcony scene. Economic status replaces family animosity as the barrier that stands between them; one they breach through sex, and, in time, love. No, this is not Cinderella. Vivian is no weak sister waiting to be saved; she makes her own way, just as Edward does. They are drawn to each other by their mutual need. Both are engaged in different kinds of prostitution, and both seek redemption. Vivian has a soul and little money; Edward has lots of money but no soul. It is a match made in Hollywood heaven.
Despite its flaws, Pretty Woman: The Musical does have appeal, in the energetic individuality of its chorus members and supporting players, and the truly stellar performance of Samantha Barks.
Pretty Woman: The Musical will lift your spirits and light up your heart. If you love the movie, you’ll love the musical! – BuzzFeed News
“Irresistible! A romantic fantasy. A contemporary fairy tale,” says The Hollywood Reporter
Pretty Woman: The Musical delivers on all the iconic moments you remember. Get ready to experience this dazzling theatrical take on a love story for the ages.
Brought to life by a powerhouse creative team representing the best of music, Hollywood and Broadway, Pretty Woman: The Musical is guaranteed to lift your spirits and light up your heart.