Why Pretty Woman: The Musical Is One of Melbourne’s Must-See Shows This Year!

Pretty Woman: The Musical Review – Samantha Jade Shines in a Feel-Good Hit at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre

As a self-confessed Pretty Woman wannabe, I’ve been obsessed with the movie for as long as I can remember. Last year I finally lived out a dream, taking myself to the Reg, Bev and Wil on Rodeo Drive to visit the iconic Beverly Wilshire Hotel and the locations where the film was made.

So when I heard Pretty Woman: The Musical was coming to Melbourne’s Regent Theatre, I was beside myself.

A few weeks before opening night, I attended a special media call dinner with Samantha Jade and Michelle Brasier, who play Vivian Ward and Kit De Luca. The pair spoke candidly about the incredible friendship they’ve formed while starring in their first musical theatre production together.

“We’ve become so close,” Michelle shared, explaining that the pair have become like sisters throughout the tour. Samantha added that every performance is different because they feed off the audience’s energy each night.

There was also an emotional moment before the Melbourne media call.

“We even had a little cry this morning,” Samantha admitted. “Melbourne is our final opening night, so it’s all starting to feel very real.”

She also laughed that while Ben Hall is an incredibly generous scene partner, he’s also “very easy to look at.”

For lifelong fans of the film, Pretty Woman: The Musical lovingly recreates so many of the moments that made the movie an all-time classic. From the Blue Banana nightclub and the luxurious Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel to Rodeo Drive and the unforgettable finale on the fire escape where Edward climbs up to rescue Vivian, it honestly feels like the movie has come to life on stage.

One of my favourite scenes has always been the famous Rodeo Drive shopping spree, and it doesn’t disappoint. Watching Vivian return to the boutique after being dismissed earlier before heading on an extravagant shopping spree with Edward is just as satisfying as it is in the film. The audience erupted into applause as she got her own back. It’s one of those scenes you know is coming, but you still can’t help smiling from ear to ear.

Samantha Jade and Ben Hall Lead an Outstanding Australian Cast

Ben Hall is perfectly cast as Edward Lewis, bringing charm, warmth and sophistication to the role. Opposite him, Samantha Jade is simply sensational as Vivian Ward. Her vocals are outstanding, and it’s hard to believe someone so petite can produce such an incredibly powerful voice. She captures Vivian’s vulnerability, humour and infectious personality while making the role completely her own.

Michelle Brasier is hilarious as Kit De Luca, delivering impeccable comic timing while also bringing genuine heart to Vivian’s best friend. Douglas Hansell is excellent as Philip Stuckey, while Tim Omaji (Timomatic) is an absolute standout, effortlessly switching between multiple roles, including the ever-charming hotel manager, Mr Thompson.

One of the things I loved most was that so many of the iconic one-liners from the movie have made it into the musical. You could feel the audience waiting for them, and when they came, everyone laughed because they’re just as funny today as they were back in 1990.

Tim Omaji has the audience in the palm of his hand as Mr Thompson. One of my favourite moments is when he introduces Vivian as “the niece of a very special guest” to ensure she’s treated with the respect she deserves. It’s such a beautiful moment and reminds you why Mr Thompson became one of the most loved characters in the original film. He quietly takes Vivian under his wing from the moment she walks through the hotel doors, and Tim brings warmth, humour and so much heart to the role.

The costumes stay wonderfully true to the original movie, although I have one tiny confession. I would have loved to have seen Vivian’s famous polo dress recreated in its original tan with white polka dots instead of the navy version used in the production. It’s a small detail, but one every die-hard Pretty Woman fan remembers.

The set design is beautifully done, moving seamlessly from scene to scene and instantly transporting the audience to Hollywood Boulevard, Rodeo Drive and the elegant Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel. And yes, the iconic bubble bath scene is there too, complete with Vivian negotiating the “bargain price” of $3,000 for the week, only for Edward to casually admit he would have happily paid $4,000.

There are so many little nods to the original film that fans will absolutely love. It’s these moments, combined with the chemistry between the cast, that make the show feel like catching up with old friends while still offering something fresh for the stage.

Pretty Woman: The Musical is funny, romantic, nostalgic and full of heart. It stays true to everything that made the film so special while adding the magic that only live theatre can deliver.

Whether, like me, you’ve always dreamed of visiting the Reg, Bev and Wil, or you’re discovering Vivian and Edward’s story for the first time, this production is a joy from beginning to end. I laughed, I smiled, I sang along in my head and, if I’m honest, I probably could have watched it all over again the moment the curtain came down.

If you grew up loving Pretty Woman, this is one musical you simply can’t miss.