‘Pretty Woman The Musical ’ by Ambassador Theatre Group Productions has hosted it’s extremely exciting Scottish premiere at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow following it’s roaring success in the West End. This excellent adaptation merges everything you want from this production with movie easter eggs, movie quotes, a visually stimulating design and its very own beautiful score. This heartwarming tale leaves audiences feeling aglow with excitement.
Once upon a time in the late ’80s, Vivian met Edward and her life changed forever. Be swept up in their romance in this dazzlingly theatrical take on a love story for the ages – and get to know these iconic characters in a whole new way – in a sensational show that took London’s West End by storm, guaranteed to lift your spirits and light up your heart.
Amber Davies as Vivian Ward was outstanding. Davies’ portrayal of Vivian was confident and demanded the audience’s attention. Her interpretation of the role brought exciting character choices and quirks which made us fall in love with the character more – if that is even possible. She impressed the audience with absolute control over her voice giving a seemingly effortless performance.
Oliver Savile as Edward Lewis had such credibility. Savile’s emotional journey was well balanced and performed in a highly believable manner. One of his physical choices which made a lasting impression was his posture – using his posture he emphasised not only the change in his character but also his status and character history. Savile’s voice was flawless, suiting the time period to a tee.
The chemistry and character relationship between Davies’ and Savile was electric. The comfortability and trust the actors have created could be seen as they allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the character’s romantic journey. They were passionate and both gave a stellar performance.
Ore Oduba as Happy Man/Mr Thompson. Ore Oduba is the audiences driving force through the narrative. Oduba’s portrayal of Mr Thompson was charming and very well developed. His adaptation was fantastic using infliction and facial expressions to heighten the more playful moments of the character. Due to this excellent portrayal of Mr Thompson – unfortunately he somewhat outshines himself – meaning Happy Man almost feels underdeveloped. In attempts to differentiate the two characters he underplays his talent though this does not take away from the character of Mr Thompson and Oduba’s wonderful portrayal.
Natalie Paris as Kit De Luca delivers nothing less than stunning powerhouse vocals. As an audience we expect nothing less from Paris than to wow us with her excellent vocal ability. Paris’ character journey as Kit De Luca is well paced and a fun energetic character for the audience to enjoy. It’s exciting to witness the versatility of Paris in comparison to previous roles. The character feels underwritten and moreish though Paris does everything she can do for the role.
Ben Darcy as Philip Stuckey. Darcy’s naturalistic style of acting completely benefits the sinister nature of the character. Darcy’s character choice invites the audience into the mind of Stuckly, he allows us to see through the two sides of the character – the version of the character he wants you to see and the underlying sinister version which comes to light. An excellent subtle portrayal of an everyday villain.
Chomba Taulo as David Morse was excellent. Taulo’s excellent portrayal was a key factor in the events which changed the trajectory of the main character’s journeys. Taulo used body language to portrayal status and class. His diction was excellent and the use of his infliction aided the dramatic tension of the production.
The ensemble were excellent in creating some fantastic and interesting pieces of movement and character work. They maintained their energy throughout and took their moment to individually make an impact on the audience. The volume of their microphones were at times too low which was a shame. I must give a special mention to Lila Falce-Bass as Violetta and Josh Damer-Jennings as Alfredo for their portrayal of the opera performers – they successfully created a world within the play which wowed the audience with their powerful voices and technique. Noah Harrison as Giulio delivered some of the most excellent physical theatre that I’ve witnessed – his portrayal of the character was extremely intelligent and moreish. The audience lapped the character up and was left awaiting his next move – Harrison completely demanded the attention of the audience. This performer is one to watch and it’ll be extremely exciting to witness the development of his career.
Musical Director Griff Johnson delivers the vision of the music and lyrics of Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Johnson has used a unique style of direction, the orchestra perfectly accompanies the style of the score. Johnson has played with the expectation of a musical by drawing out the subtleties in the drama of the music. The score feels cinematic in this approach which suits the adaptation. The vocals are still powerhouse vocals with lovely harmonies. With this being said, although the style suits the content, the opening and closing numbers do not have the impact which we have come to expect which leaves room for the audience to feel somewhat short changed – perhaps something as simplistic as the volume of the cast’s microphones being turned up would change the overall impact of the opening and closing numbers.
Director and Choreographer Jerry Mitchell has struck a wonderful balance in this adaptation of a well loved classic film. There’s no surprise that this two-time Tony Award winner has hit the nail on the head with this production. The pacing of the build of the story leaves nothing to the imagination and fully immerses you into the world of Vivian and Edward. The transitions are seamless, transporting you from each environment while retaining your attention. The fashion and opera segments were both very creative and highlights of the production – though more could be done to build the hype of the catwalk-like fashion show to increase its impact. The choreography is effective and energetic – it again feels somewhat understated at times though it would feel out of place to have over-choreographed work in between the action on stage.
The Book is adapted well by Garry Marshall (original motion picture director) and J. F. Lawton (original screenwriter). The pair have created a new style of theatre. We often see films of this rom-com, coming of age style adapted into plays or musicals – trying to distinguish itself either way in one direction. This adaptation follows the film – pleasing the audience with it’s easter eggs and well loved quotes. Simultaneously it challenges our own ideals of the characters and their journey. The adaptation is a fantastically balanced, crowd pleasing production – even if some of the characters feel overlooked. The performance at times feels long – though it’s difficult to see where cuts could be made to combat this as every moment feels vital to the build of the story arc.
The Scenic Design by David Rockwell and the Lighting Design by Kenneth Posner and Philip S. Rosenberg work in tandem to create an exciting contemporary production. Visually the production is beautifully crafted, the creativity oozes out of these designers and they are certainly ones to keep watch for throughout their careers. Their work drives the atmosphere and aids the director in the transportation and overall credibility of the performance. The costumes designed by Tom Rogers are essential in creating status and the pivotal change within Vivian and her surroundings. These beautiful costumes were a joy to witness and had a wow factor which more than dazzled the audience.
‘Pretty Woman The Musical’ is a heart-warming production which at its core focuses on love, romance and the true love fantasy we long for. The production is an excellent adaptation of the well loved film which uses an interesting mix of styles to put the relationship of Vivian and Edward at the forefront. It may not be exactly what you expect of a traditional musical and the book itself could maybe use a female voice at times but for any ‘Pretty Woman’ fan it sure will leave you feeling more than satisfied.
This production is performing at The Theatre Royal in Glasgow from now until the 25th of November 2023. Get your tickets here: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/pretty-woman-the-musical/theatre-royal-glasgow/
📸Marc Brenner
Theatre Scotland 
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