So you missed “Pretty Woman: The Musical” at the Fox Theatre? Big Mistake.

Cue “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison because this song will be playing in your head for the next week thanks to the fabulous production of “Pretty Woman: The Musical” at the Fox Theatre. Running from September 13 through 18, 2022 this show was an utter delight from start to finish. With the glittering lights of theatre magic, a star studded cast and even an opera, this show left theatre-goers with that warm and fuzzy feeling after the curtain closes.

This musical adaption of the hit 1990s movie starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere had all the elements audience members know and love. With all the quotes and characters replicated for the stage, this adaptation was set up to get people through the doors. Just throw in some emotional ballads and a great dance number or two, and you’ve got a box office success.

Completed with costumes that perfectly mimic the wardrobe from the movie, like the blonde wig and over the knee boots look when Vivian and Edward meet for the first time. They also matched the little polka dot dress at the polo match. They even recreated the white button down dress for the makeover scene when she tells the rude saleswomen on Rodeo Drive, “You work on commission right? Big mistake.”

The Cast

The casting for this show could not have been more perfect. Walking into the theatre, I admittedly was not aware that I was about to see one of my favorite Broadway legends perform. But when Edward began singing “Something About Her,” there was something familiar about that voice. That falsetto mixed with rock star grit – and it hit me. The inner theatre kid in me jumped for joy at the familiar face on the Playbill, standing on stage as the leading man. Adam Pascal.

Known for originating the role of Roger in “Rent,” both the stage musical and the movie adaptation, Pascal is a Broadway superstar. He has taken on countless celebrated roles, from William Shakespeare in “Something Rotten” to Billy Flynn in “Chicago.” “Pretty Woman: The Musical” is just another step in Pascal’s theatrical career. He’s known for his incredible voice, that really brought the character of Edward to life. It gave this businessman character some interest and passion, that perfectly complimented all the feistiness of Vivian.

Anyone who walks into the theatre to see an adaption of a movie they know and love, is going to arrive with some skepticism. Especially when compared to Julia Roberts in one of her most celebrated roles. But Olivia Valli faced this challenge head on and delivered a wonderful performance. She captured the charm and radiance of Roberts, while also maintaining the humor and wit of the character. Pair that with an incredible power ballad voice, and Valli is sure to be on her way to Broadway stardom.

The excellent casting doesn’t stop with the two leads. In fact, the supporting characters and ensemble were the show stoppers. These characters help bring this intimate story to life and give the show that familiar razzle dazzle of a stage musical.

The ensemble are the nameless, but incredibly enthusiastic and over the top characters on the outside of the scene. They’re always moving, dancing or in the background acting as hotel staff, polo match patrons and members of the opera. They add comedy and humor where the scene needs it and help move set pieces to transition into a new scene. If it weren’t for these incredible actors, the show would not be the success it is.

The theatre scene in Atlanta never disappoints, but this show was particularly wonderful. And while some like to critique shows and companies that make musical adaptations of hit movies, there was something about this show that just worked. The additions of characters, diving more into the comedy of the show and of course the toe-tapping musical numbers, how can you not have fun? That is what the theatre experience is all about. An excuse to put your phone away and fully immerse yourself in the joy of live theatre. Especially when they end their show with a sing along of “Oh, Pretty Woman” with the full cast, with the audience clapping and singing along. Truly making it a memorable and joyful experience.