Review: PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL, New Wimbledon Theatre - Tour
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
Pretty Woman: The Musical is an adapation from the iconic 1990 rom-com starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The musical played for a year on Broadway before transferring to the West End in 2020.
The story follows Vivian (Sydnie Hockwell) who is hired to be an escort for wealthy businessman Edward (Oliver Savile). Over the course of the week, their transactional business deal blossoms into a passionate romance.
Hockwell played Vivian, on this particular night, and does tremendously well as a 3rd cover. She brings a playful, bold and unapologetic interpretation to the role and demonstrates great character development from an ambition-less, carefree and graceless young girl to a determined and refined lady. A particular standout moment is the commanding ‘I Can’t Go Back’ when Hockwell is given a chance to showcase her talent as Vivian realises her self worth. ‘This Is My Life’ allows the audience to understand Vivian’s circumstances and root for her happiness.
Saville plays opposite her as suave businessman, Edward, and embodies the character perfectly. He adds an authenticity and softness to the character especially in ‘Something About Her’ when his smooth vocals give an insight into his immediate fascination with Vivian, who is unlike the women he is used to.
Ore Oduba charms the audience as ‘The Happy Man’ as he constantly pops up in every scene as a variety of personas and assists the characters in their journeys, while keeping the audience engaged. His dance skills are particularly impressive, understandably, after he won the 14th series of Strictly Come Dancing. His dance partner, Noah Harrison, is hilarious as comedic, cartoon-like bell boy Giulio, especially with his wig mopping skills!
Natalie Paris also gives a great performance in a supporting role, and special mention must be given to Lila Falce-Bass as Violetta/Bag Lady for her outstanding operatic vocals.
The luminous sets are hugely effective in transporting the audience to star-studded Hollywood. The palm trees help to create the landscape of LA, as well as being an extravagant ornament to depict the lavish Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Having a lit-up, coloured backdrop creates animated silhouettes of the ensemble in the background pairing perfectly with the caricature-style characters in the foreground. Brightly coloured LED signs create the cheaper side of town where Vivian and Kit pick up their customers.
The songs by Brian Adams and Jim Vallance often merge into one and have, for the most part, predictable lyrics with a surface level-meaning, yet this is the basis of the entire rom-com plot. ‘Long Way Home’ is a more memorable duet performed beautifully by Hockwell and Saville. Similarly, ‘You’re Beautiful’ offers the feel good factor as an Act 1 finale.
Although the performers are not lacking in energy, occasionally the performance feels a little flat and the audience disconnect from the action on stage.
However, this show is perfect for anyone who is a fan of the movie and is looking for a fun night out.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Marina Holmes Smith
Pretty Woman the Musical plays at New Wimbledon Theatre until 17 February before continuing its tour. To book tickets for Wimbledon and other select touring venues, please click here.