The Perth premiere of Pretty Woman: The Musical enchanted audiences last night at Crown Theatre. The Jones Theatrical Group production, led by some of Australia’s most talented performers, leans into the nostalgia of the cult classic film, tugging firmly at the heartstrings.
Staying true to the original story while enhancing the themes and emotional depth, the musical teases out the intricacies of life-altering connections and big dreams.
In a sold-out venue filled mostly with middle-aged theatregoers who grew up watching the original film, the anticipation and expectations were high. From my perspective, those expectations were met, even exceeded, as we were pulled into the vivid, contrasting worlds of Hollywood Boulevard and Beverly Hills.
The excitement was palpable as we watched the characters’ inner lives and stories unfold on stage in what felt like an authentic yet theatrical retelling of the film.
I’ll spare the details of the story, as I’m sure almost everyone has seen the original film and jump straight into praising the actors and creatives who bring these characters to life on stage.
Australian icon, Samantha Jade, delivers a standout performance in her debut musical-theatre role as Vivian Ward. Jade gives it her all and captures the eccentricities and vulnerabilities of Vivian. Her vocal skills are unmatched, and her acting felt natural as she delivered some of the character’s most iconic lines.
Ben Hall effectively embodies the tense and guarded characterisation of Edward Lewis. It is a delight to see this unravel and his walls come down as his connection with Vivian deepens.
The musical opens with a backdrop of the famous Hollywood sign, complete with sparkling palm trees and neon signs illuminating Hollywood Boulevard. Designed by David Rockwell, the sets are both imaginative and tasteful.
The audience is transported into the worlds of Beverly Hills, Hollywood and Rodeo Drive, each with its own distinct visual identity. The transitions between sets are seamless, shifting from the art nouveau elegance of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel to the rustic grunge of the Hollywood streets. The grand piano is a beautiful addition to the set design, tying it all together.
The costumes, designed by Tom Rogers, stay true to the film, much to the audience’s delight. From Vivian’s barely-there white-and-blue dress and thigh-high black boots to her glorious red gown and white gloves, the costumes emulate the movie in a nostalgic, celebratory way.
And of course, we can’t forget the curly red wig, which you could say is a character of its own. Other standout designs are the retro green bell boy costumes and the many colourful, elegant ball gowns.
The entire ensemble is incredibly talented and gave everything they had on stage last night, but a few audience favourites quickly emerged. Performers who were fully committed made us laugh and fall in love with their characters almost instantly.
Michelle Brasier, who plays Vivian’s friend and roommate Kit De Luca, demonstrates exceptional characterisation and vocal ability. Her Chicago-inspired accent is skilfully delivered, and her sharp wit and strong character development make you instantly root for her.
Bobby Fox, who plays Happy Man and Mr Thompson, and Jordan Tomljenovic as Giulio, are delightful additions to an already multidimensional cast. The characters propel the story forward with unique physicality and comedic relief. Their duet is a crowd favourite as they take centre stage in a dramatic and precise display of ballroom dancing with flair.
Rebecca Gulinello impresses us with an impeccable opera solo during the famous opera scene. Gulinello effortlessly portrays the emotional depth and technical challenge of opera in just a small snippet, leaving you wanting more.
The script itself is well-adapted for the stage, honouring the original ‘80s storyline while adding a theatrical lens that heightens its impact. More stylised and dramatic in places, the themes of Pretty Woman are expanded in a way only musical theatre can achieve.
Beneath the singing and choreography, the story remains grounded, which only deepens your understanding of the characters’ inner worlds. The music and lyrics, by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, add a touch of cheesiness that Perth audiences seem to love. From songs about falling in love to chasing big dreams to self-discovery, the score ticks all the boxes of a beloved musical theatre production.
As someone born after the film’s release in the 90s, I didn’t connect with the nostalgia quite as strongly as many of the audience members, some of whom dressed up in Vivian’s most iconic outfits.
Still, it was clear how much the Pretty Woman story means to people, and the production team delivered a performance that transported them right back to their childhoods.
It is satisfying to see Vivian’s story unpacked a little further. Vivian Ward reflects all our deepest vulnerabilities and desires: to be seen, to dream, and to claim autonomy and freedom. The show doesn’t overplay these themes or attempt to shock. Instead, it offers an honest reflection on courage, connection, and personal development tastefully amplified through a musical theatre lens.
Pretty Woman: The Musical is funny, vulnerable, light-hearted and undeniably feel-good. Even though we all know the story, the contemporary retelling, honesty, and emotional depth of the production still manage to surprise and enlighten us.
There’s no doubt that after seeing this new musical, you’ll leave feeling happy and hopeful and probably humming a song or two on the drive home.
Pretty Woman: The Musical runs to 24 May at Crown Theatre Perth. Great Eastern Highway in Burswood, WA 6100.
It then tours to Adelaide and Melbourne. See dates below.
Tickets: https://prettywomanthemusical.com.au/tickets/perth/
Website: https://prettywomanthemusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/prettywomanmusicalau/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
2026 Australian Tour Dates:
Perth on now until 24 May, Crown Theatre
Adelaide 31 May – 28 June, Her Majesty’s Theatre
Melbourne 14 July – 9 August, Regent Theatre
