To See or Not to See: Pretty Woman: The Musical

It seems that we’re experiencing an entertainment age of adaptations. Seemingly, there are more books being adapted into TV shows and films, and films and TV shows are being adapted for the stage (Mean Girls, Spongebob, Frozen, etc.). And now we have Pretty Woman: The Musical to add to that list. Based on the iconic movie of the same name, unfortunately, Pretty Woman: The Musical is not quite as charming or memorable.

As you may be aware, the premise is that Vivian (Samantha Barks), a hooker, is paid by an insanely wealthy businessman Edward (Andy Karl) to be his companion while he is in L.A. for the week. He, of course, saves her from the streets; she brings emotion into his life and helps him open up.

Directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell (with a book by Garry Marshall and J.F. Lawton and forgettable music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance), Pretty Woman is almost a series of memorable film moments: when Vivian tries to buy new clothes on Rodeo Drive and is turned away, dressing up for the opera, going to the races, and standing over Edward in his button-up as he plays the piano. Many of the copied moments feel imitated–like when Edward presents Vivian with a diamond necklace, playfully snapping the box shut on her fingers, and she laughs. There are no surprises in the show, and any darkness has been mostly scrubbed away.

That said, the cast does a good job of making the show fun, light, and enjoyable. Although the characters as written fall a little flat in their one-dimensionality, the performances will bring a smile to your face. In the supporting roles, Orfeh (as Kit, Vivian’s best friend) and Eric Anderson (as the Happy Man and hotel manager Mr. Thompson) give lively performances. As Vivian, Samantha Barks has an infectious joy that she brings to even her more serious scenes. Her vocal ability is also incredibly evident, and she looks and sounds beautiful. Andy Karl is a bit more stiff in his role as Edward, but he is an equally talented performer and when he finally loosens up, his charm oozes off stage.

So while you shouldn’t go see Pretty Woman: The Musical with high expectations for a fresh take on a classic movie, you should see it if you’re looking for a lighthearted evening at the theater–especially if you’re looking for something your aunt from Iowa would like to see.

Pretty Woman: The Musical is playing at the Nederlander Theatre. For more information and tickets, click here. 

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy