The 1980’s rom-com, Pretty Woman comes to life on the Dutch Apple stage. Song and dance are added to this iconic Cinderella story which will be most enjoyed by big fans of the movie. Max Lynch stars as Vivian, the hooker with a heart of gold. This is the role that made Julia Roberts a big star and with good reason. Lynch is bubbly and charming in her interpretation.
In a show that follows very closely to the original material, it was good to recognize that Lynch was making the character her own. For the most part, her choices were on point. My one criticism, though, was her choice of a prominent Southern twang of an accent. Theatrically, southern accents are usually associated with characters who are considered dumb or naïve. Vivian is neither of these things.
Austin Mirsoltani is well cast as uptight financier, Edward. Mirsoltani balances out Lynch’s frivolity with a sense of purpose and seriousness. His act one number, Something About Her, was the most memorable song in the entire score, and he sings it well!
Support characters Kit and Phillip, played respectively by Adeera Harris and Bobby Guenther bring depth to the story. Each has several moments to shine throughout the night. Special recognition to Errol Service, Jr. who played multiple roles throughout the night, most prominently an original character named Happy Man, who sort of serves as the narrator for the show. Service has dynamic stage presence, and it was fun to see him pop in and out of different scenes.
Amy Marie McCleary serves the production well in her dual role as director and choreographer. I recently reviewed the national tour of Pretty Woman, and I strongly preferred the pace, energy, and sets of the Dutch Apple production.
The score is serviceable but really doesn’t add much nor help us appreciate the characters in any new way. As stated earlier, the plot and dialogue are heavily influenced by the film. This is probably a mixed bag based on your love of the original source. Some folks will be tickled to hear all those memorable lines acted out in real life. Others might shrug and think- why not just stream the film again on Netflix? Your mileage will vary.
Pretty Woman plays now through September 24th.
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