Pretty Woman is one of the most loved movies in the world and so often with such a beloved film, a musical adaptation (or any adaptation) can feel somewhat superfluous. Yet, like many other iconic films, Pretty Woman has been given the musical treatment and has arrived in Sydney as part of a national tour. The show features music and lyrics by Bryan Adams (of “Summer of ’69” fame) and Jim Vallance to capture the attention of fans of the film and musical theatre lovers alike, many of whom packed out the audience on opening night.

The producers have assembled a stellar cast for this production, led by X Factor star Samantha Jade and theatre and pop singer extraordinaire Tim Omaji. The star power in the cast means there is immediate interest from the audience who are captured by Jade’s extraordinary vocals at the start of the performance with “Anywhere But Here” where she shows off the vastness of her range and incredible vocal precision which translates very well to the musical theatre stage. Her acting is also incredibly strong as Vivian Ward, the woman who falls in love with corporate raider Edward Lewis, and she is well supported by Ben Hall, who displays strong vocals throughout as well as the stoicism required for the character.

The plot needs little introduction as the musical follows the story of Ward and Lewis as they fall in love despite their differences and the musical remains largely faithful to the movie, which allows the audience to focus on the new songs as well as the performances.

It is hard to say that Tim Omaji is a revelation given his incredible pedigree in the Australian performing arts world but he really lifts this production as the hotel manager of the Beverly Wilshire, Mr Thompson, and as a quasi-narrator character. His vocals are superb as always and his acting and movement are incredible, rivalling some of the best dancers on the theatre circuit.

The vocals across this cast are absolutely sublime, with Michelle Brazier showing vocal swagger with “Rodeo Drive” as Kit while Callum Warrender and Rebecca Gulinello provide a welcome comedic break with an operatic interlude in the middle of the show (in which they demonstrate excellent vocals beyond the comedy!) Jordan Tomljenovic is also superb as the dancing bellhop, adding comic relief to the main plot to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

There is no denying that some of the songs in this production do not quite live up to the story with some excellent Bryan Adams-style power ballads largely overpowered by a number of less entertaining and plodding numbers. But, ultimately, it does not matter in this production since the fun factor is sky-high as a result of the superb acting performances, vocals and spectacle on stage.

The set is also whimsical with David Rockwell putting together a beautiful Beverly Wilshire-style design for the hotel which contrasts exceptionally with the griminess of the LA streetscape set. At the end of the opening night performance, the audience was also treated to a cast performance of the Roy Orbison classic “Oh Pretty Woman”, which is teased throughout the show but only arrives at the end (much to the crowd’s delight). It is a great way to close out what is a truly wonderful and entertaining performance.

Overall, this is a show that does not take itself too seriously, focusing on pleasing fans of the original film and musical theatre fans alike. It is extremely fun and enjoyable and a great night out for everyone with superstar performances from a star-studded cast of exceptional performers. As we near the holiday season, this is definitely one not to miss!

Rating: ★★★★1/2

Pretty Woman: The Musical plays at the Theatre Royal until 1st March, 2026. For more information, click here. 

All photo credits: Daniel Boud