The Australian premiere of Pretty Woman: The Musical arrives with big Hollywood credentials and a devoted fan base ready to relive the 1990 rom-com. Based on the film by Garry Marshall and J.F. Lawton, the stage version promises big hair, big dreams and a heartwarming Cinderella story set to the music of Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance.
The stage musical premiered in Chicago in 2018 before transferring to Broadway the following year, with productions since staged in London, Germany, and now Australia. It’s presented by Jones Theatrical Group (partnering with Tourism and Events Queensland), alongside ATG Productions and Gavin Kalin Productions
The story follows the unlikely romance between Hollywood Boulevard call girl Vivian Ward and uptight businessman Edward Lewis. With songs by pop-rock legend Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, the musical adaptation aims to bottle the film’s charm and heart for the stage, with mixed results.
Director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell’s production leans into the nostalgia, but this family-friendly adaptation smooths out the film’s darker edges. The climactic scene with sleazy lawyer Stuckey, played by Douglas Hansell, has been rewritten so that Vivian triumphs through some questionably executed stage fight choreography, a slightly cartoonish twist.
Visually, the show hits the right beats but doesn’t always dazzle. The costumes and wigs nod to late ‘80s glamour but sometimes feel more costume-party than couture. The choreography is straightforward, and the score is pleasant, but never quite lodges in the memory.
Pop singing sensation Samantha Jade makes her musical-theatre debut as Vivian Ward. She’s bright, charming, and brings a touch of sparkle. Her performance feels carefully rehearsed, rather than lived in.
As Edward, Ben Hall is memorable in his solo Freedom, performed at the live piano, where we see his inner conflict. Together, the pair’s chemistry is cordial rather than electric; the story’s emotional stakes never quite catching fire.
Michelle Brasier, also making her musical-theatre debut as Kit, brings a bold comic presence to the stage. She belts out Rodeo Drive with sass and style, backed by some fabulous ensemble members whom I wanted to see more of. Brasier’s expanded role in this musical adaptation nearly steals the spotlight.
Tim Omaji is a delight in his multiple roles, including Happy Man and Mr Thompson, injecting genuine joy and charisma every time he appears on stage.
Jordan Tomljenovic as Giulio, the hotel porter, is a crowd favourite. Funny, camp, and committed, his waltz scene with Omaji is a visual delight.
The red-dress moment drew the biggest cheers of the night, with audience members in matching crimson gowns applauding in solidarity.
The opera scene, featuring soprano Rebecca Gulinello and tenor Callum Warrender, adds a classy touch. Omaji’s cameo as the ‘conductor’ earns some big laughs.
By the time the cast launches into the encore featuring the iconic title song, the opening-night crowd is on its feet, dancing. There’s no denying the charm of nostalgia, and this production delivers plenty of that.
Pretty Woman: The Musical will delight fans of the movie and anyone seeking a dose of glossy escapism. Like the film it’s based on, it sells a dream; one wrapped in sequins, smiles and a happy ending, even if it never quite sweeps you off your feet.
PRETTY WOMAN: The Musical runs to 23 November at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC.
It will run in Sydney from 30 November at the Theatre Royal. Waitlist for tickets for Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne.
Website: https://prettywomanthemusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/prettywomanmusicalau/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
