‘Walking down the street’ and into the West End, Pretty Woman will open at the Piccadilly Theatre in 2020. Based on the 1990 film of the same name starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, the stage adaptation of the romantic comedy received its Broadway premiere last year. Featuring original music by singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, we take a look at what audiences can expect from the West End premiere of Pretty Woman.
What’s the story of Pretty Woman?
When Edward Lewis, a wealthy corporate businessman is dumped by his girlfriend, he later finds himself in Hollywood’s red light district. Driving down Hollywood Boulevard, he encounters Vivian Ward – and the pair immediately hit it off. Revealing their personal lives to one another, Edward invites Vivian to accompany him to social and business functions for the next week, but as they grow closer together, can they overcome all odds and let go of their past lives?
Is the musical different to the film?
Fans of the 1990 film can rejoice, as the musical features a book by Garry Marshall and J.F. Lawton, the respective director and screenwriter of the original movie, so you'll be able to see your favourite moments from the film recreated live on stage. So, if you’re looking for a slice of movie magic in the heart of the West End, you’ll want to see Pretty Woman at the Piccadilly Theatre.
Who will star in Pretty Woman?
The West End cast of Pretty Woman is yet to be announced.
The original Broadway cast of Pretty Woman starred Samantha Barks as Vivian Ward, the role made famous by Julia Roberts. With a glittering tour across stage and screen, she’s performed in musicals including The Last Five Years at the St. James Theatre (now The Other Palace) and Les Miserables as Eponine, reprising her performance in the 25th anniversary concert and the 2012 film adaptation.
Andy Karl originated the role of Edward Lewis in the stage adaptation of Pretty Woman. With previous Broadway credits including On The Twentieth Century and Rocky the Musical as the eponymous boxer, the American actor made his West End debut in 2016, starring in Groundhog Day at the Old Vic, which later transferred to Broadway.
The Broadway cast also starred Orfeh as Kit De Luca, Jason Danieley as Phillip Stuckey, Eric Anderson as Mr. Thompson and Kingsley Leggs as James Morse.
What songs are in Pretty Woman?
As well as the 1964 song by Roy Orbison, the Pretty Woman soundtrack features an original score, with music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. A multi-award-winning Canadian singer/songwriter, Adams has collaborated with Vallance for over 30 years on songs including ‘Heaven’, ‘Run to You’ and ‘Summer of ‘69’. Although Jim Vallance is best known for his work with Adams, he’s also written songs for some of the world’s biggest international artists, including Ozzy Osbourne and Tina Turner. Listen to the Pretty Woman soundtrack here, featuring up-tempo pop-rock songs including ‘Welcome to Hollywood’ and ‘Rodeo Drive’.
What did critics say about Pretty Woman?
“Pretty Woman has appeal in the energetic individuality of its chorus members and supporting players.”
Sarah Downs
New York Theatre Guide
“Much of the show plays like a scene-for-scene facsimile of the movie, right down to large chunks of dialogue and the iconic outfits worn by Barks... But judging by the teary sighs, laughs and cheers of recognition, moist-eyed nostalgia appears to be exactly what the audience wants.”
David Rooney
Hollywood Reporter
“Pretty Woman goes all-in on fantasy it’s a morally uplifting fairy tale of which everyone, young and old alike, can be sceptical.”
Bob Verini
Variety
When does Pretty Woman open in London?
Pretty Woman is at the Piccadilly Theatre from 14th February 2020, with performances available to 2nd January 2021.
Where can I get tickets for Pretty Woman?
Book your tickets to Pretty Woman before everyone else with our early access. Pay no booking fee on preview performances from 14th February 2020 to 29th February 2020, but you’ll need to be quick as this offer is only available until 12th September.
Pretty Woman tickets at the Piccadilly Theatre are on sale now.
