Pretty Woman
{ Guillermo Creamer }
LAST YEAR I DECIDED to subscribe to the Hanover Theatre’s Broadway subscription, and it was filled with entertainment, so I decided to do it again this year. Stepping into the Hanover Theatre on a crisp evening, I was eagerly anticipating the stage adaptation of Pretty Woman, a story that’s been etched into the memories of many by the 1990 movie. As the lights dimmed, I found myself immersed in the captivating world of Vivian, a Hollywood prostitute yearning for a different life, and Edward Lewis, the affluent businessman whose life becomes intertwined with hers in the most unexpected way.
There’s a certain magic in seeing a beloved tale unfold before your eyes, and Pretty Woman: The Musical certainly didn’t disappoint. The energy in the theater was palpable as the story began to unravel on stage. I couldn’t help but be drawn into the whirlwind romance and the infectious melodies that filled the air. I’ll be honest, I hadn’t watched the movie in quite some time and recently have come across some iconic moments on Tik Tok, but the stage adaptation rushed all the memories of it.
What struck me most was the chemistry between the characters. Vivian and Edward, brought to life by a talented cast, conveyed a raw authenticity that made their journey from initial awkward encounters to an unexpected love story all the more enchanting. Despite the familiar trope of a heroine seeking redemption, the actors breathed new life into these characters, making them feel both relatable and endearing. When a movie that had no musical numbers in it is transformed into a musical you have to wonder if it’ll work.
The musical numbers were nothing short of spectacular. There was emotionally charged ballads that tugged at the heartstrings, each song added depth and emotion to the unfolding narrative. The choreography was a visual feast, complementing the music and storytelling with seamless precision. You could tell that this cast knew how to stay in-sync with each other.
The stage design transported me to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Vibrant sets and dazzling costumes painted a vivid backdrop. Touring sets can sometimes be dull and uninteresting but this one had hope.
While Pretty Woman: The Musical may not have ventured into groundbreaking territory in terms of plot, its ability to capture the essence of the original film while infusing it with a fresh theatrical charm was commendable. I found myself rooting for Vivian and Edward, hoping against hope that their unlikely romance would defy the odds and flourish.
Leaving the theatre that night, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of warmth and nostalgia. It wasn’t just a musical; it was an experience—a captivating journey filled with laughter, tears, and an enduring sense of hope. For both fans of the classic movie and newcomers to the story, this production is a testament to the enduring power of love and the magic of live theatre.
Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Hanover Theatre is more than just a show; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a world where dreams collide, hearts are transformed, and love conquers all. It’s a night out that I won’t soon forget—a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the most unexpected love stories are the ones that stay with us forever.
The Hanover Theatre is an incredible asset to our community, bringing some of Broadway’s best to downtown Worcester. Next time you want to catch a show save your money on the drive to NYC and see what the Hanover has lined up in their schedule.