Pretty Woman – Sheffield Lyceum

With a £450 Million box office success, turning the blockbusting 1980’s film into a touring theatrical production was always going to attract curious followers and Sheffield Lyceum was no exception. I mean ‘Come on, who didn’t love the Cinderella–esque story! Pretty Woman is very much in the Pygmalion vein of down on their luck girl means the wealthy and dashing man of her dreams, this time set in Hollywood, A little old fashioned kind of theory by today’s standards?? But hey, it’s still a closeted nostalgic winner! With, to be honest, forgettable Music and Lyrics by Brian Adams and Jim Vallance and the book; which stays very close to the film; by Garry Marshall and J.F. Lawton, Director and Choreographer Jerry Mitchell works hard and does a great job of bringing the magic of the film back and onto the stage.

Under Griff Johnson’s Musical Direction, the six piece band go a long way to add to the ambience without ever dominating. The sound design and quality throughout the show was good and the mixes and blends were near perfect, thanks to John Shivers and Margot Gloaguen.  The scenic design by David Rockwell, although simple, does its job and blends seamlessly into the story allowing the costumes by Tom Rogers to shine with 80’s fashions and iconic pieces (although sometimes in different colours to the film!). The lighting design by Kenneth Posner and Philip S. Rosenberg has some lovely silhouette moments and is very effective throughout.

Unlike the Broadway production the cast of the UK tour are its greatest asset. Amber Davies’ Vivian, has all the vulnerability yet fun and depth of the Julia Roberts version. Davies’ vocals are powerful and her characterisation is detailed and believable. Her on stage connection with Oliver Savile’s Edward Lewis is tangible and the pair make a strong and dynamic leading couple. Savile’s vocal has a beautiful soulful tone and the pair collaboratively make a good show from the mainly forgettable score. The show opens with the Happy Man… ‘Welcome to Hollywood…land of dreams…’ and what an impression Ore Oduba makes. Forgot the term ‘star vehicle’ this is a stellar, show stealing performance by Oduba who also plays the hotel Manager Mr Thompson, with charisma, comedy, vocals and energy in abundance, he is exceptional! His sidekick, Noah Harrison as the Bell boy – Giulio, is equally as impressive with his hilarious facial expressions and over exaggerated movement, his performance is polished and has all the innocence and comedy required of the role… I couldn’t take my eyes off him!

Mention must be made of a surprising Opera performance by Lila Falce-Bass as Violetta and Josh Damer-Jennings as Alfredo, this was unexpected and a real delight, beautifully sung. Ben Darcy makes a shudderingly slimy and creepy Philip Stuckey whilst Chomba Taulo is a likeable and convincing David Morse. Now to the powerhouse – Natalie Paris as Kit de Luca with her famous ‘Cinderf**kingrella’ line that the audience waited for and revelled in. Paris’ vocals are sublime, she sings rock and soul better than any 80’s Diva I can remember and her character depiction is flawless!

The much used and energetic ensemble; who moved set and props effortlessly to make the flow of the show swift and seamless; added to the principal cast lift this show from mediocre to ‘a real good night out!’. I thoroughly enjoyed the evening and it was great fun listening and waiting for Icon scenes and lines… ‘Big Mistake… big, big… Huge Mistake!’ they were all there, even the famous raunchy piano scene!

Pretty Woman is pretty much the best night out for an 80’s kid. So get yourself to the Sheffield Lyceum, the production is playing until Saturday 28^th September 2024, and see Edward save Vivian and Vivian… save him right back!  I promise you, you can’t fail to enjoy the nostalgic experience with this exceptionally talented cast!

Reviewer: Tracey Bell

Reviewed: 24th September 2024

North West End UK Rating: