Review: Pretty Woman Finds Magic In Adelaide

★★★★½

Bold, bright, and bubbly are words that come to mind describing the entirety of director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell’s Pretty Woman: The Musical, on now in Adelaide as part of its national tour.

Retaining much of the original film’s 80s charm, this adaptation, presented in Australia by Jones Theatrical Group, simply builds upon the characters emotional depth and contrasts between the worlds of the stiff upper class and those working the vibrant streets of Hollywood.

While there are many hurdles to be faced to be able to bridge these worlds, there is the overarching and heartwarming affirmation that all we really need to survive is to believe in a dream. With hope, there is possibility and purpose for living, and Will Van Dyke’s musical arrangements certainly aid that.

From the beginning, this musical burst into life and song with colourful characters introducing the audience to the night-time culture of Hollywood Boulevard. Each performer is as strong as each other, always providing something different to take-in.

Samantha Jade’s portrayal of the iconic Vivian Ward is playfully soulful as she struggles to find where she truly fits in and tries to recall what she really wants. Her emotional range and vocal abilities combine impressively to share her journey as she eventually takes control of her own destiny.

Similarly, Ben Hall’s Edward Lewis has a quiet strength that slowly becomes more outward as he grows in confidence and realisation. The consistency of his vocals and development in character is just beautiful to watch.

Michelle Brasier’s Kit de Luca is just delightfully fun as Vivian’s scattered roommate, with a powerhouse voice and humorous one-liners.

Tim Omaji’s comic timing as Happy Man and Mr Thompson is charmingly entertaining as he switches personas from outwardly encouraging to stoically supportive, seeming to often pop up in the most surprising of places.

Special mentions must go to Jordan Tomljenovic’s Giulio, whose brief moments are often adorably wholesome, and Callum Warrender and Rebecca Gulinello’s incredible operatic performance as Alfredo and Violetta respectively.

While of course unseen, David Skelton’s conducting of the band is joyfully precise and the big sound certainly adds to the reminiscent vibe of the 80s.

The frequent repetition of key set pieces is integral in establishing the diversity of locations and moods. While the hotel room remains clean, precise, and pale in colour, the Hollywood Boulevard is its complete opposite in multicoloured neon lights, patterns, and crowded atmosphere.

As the two worlds begin to merge, there is a combination of these elements as if they sought for the same balance the characters did.

And while the theme song of Pretty Woman is not featured within the musical itself, it is certainly a highly-anticipated curtain call sing-along – by the cast and audience.

While it’s not an exact recreation of J. F. Lawton’s film, Pretty Woman: The Musical remains faithful to the characters and the overarching messages, with plenty of recognisable moments to enjoy.

Whether you are familiar with the source material or not, this experience will stay with you as a fantastic night out at the theatre. Perhaps it may even inspire you to watch or re-watch the original…

Pretty Woman: the Musical runs to 28 June at Her Majesty’s Theatre. 58 Grote Street Adelaide SA 5000.

Tickets: https://prettywomanthemusical.com.au/tickets/adelaide/

Website: https://prettywomanthemusical.com.au/

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/prettywomanmusicalau/

Photo credits: Daniel Boud

2026 Australian Tour Dates:

Adelaide On now until 28 June, Her Majesty’s Theatre

Melbourne 14 July – 9 August, Regent Theatre