Review: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying at Futures Theatre
May 29, 2026
Review: What’s The Buzz? At Adelaide Festival Theatre
June 7, 2026
‘Missing this musical would be a big mistake. Huge!’
“Samantha Jade and Ben Hall are pure magic together.”
“A dazzling Australian production packed with scene-stealing talent.”
Well, if your dream is to spend two-and-a-half hours grinning from ear to ear while being swept away by powerhouse vocals, irresistible chemistry, dazzling choreography and more charisma than Rodeo Drive can handle, then the new Australian production of Pretty Woman the Musical has arrived right on time.
Based on the iconic 1990 film, this stage adaptation takes the beloved fairy tale and gives it a rock-infused makeover, featuring music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. While audiences know the destination, it’s the journey, and the extraordinary cast bringing it to life, that makes this production shine brighter than Vivian’s ruby necklace.
Leading the charge is Samantha Jade as Vivian Ward, and what a debut this is. Possessing the star quality required to step into Julia Roberts’ famous thigh-high boots, Jade effortlessly balances Vivian’s infectious charm, vulnerability and determination. Her vocals soar throughout the score, particularly in ‘Anywhere But Here’ and the uplifting ‘I Can’t Go Back,’ where she delivers both emotional honesty and vocal strength. Most importantly, she makes Vivian entirely her own.
Opposite her, Ben Hall is every inch the polished corporate raider Edward Lewis. Hall delivers a nuanced portrayal that peels back Edward’s carefully constructed exterior to reveal the lonely man underneath. His rich vocals shine throughout, but it is the chemistry between Hall and Jade that elevates the entire evening. Their connection feels genuine, natural and utterly captivating. From awkward first encounters to heartfelt moments of vulnerability, they create a romance audiences can’t help but invest in.
As Kit De Luca, Michelle Brasier threatens to steal the show whenever she steps on stage. Armed with one of the most powerful voices in Australian musical theatre, Brasier turns ‘Rodeo Drive’ into a knockout moment while injecting warmth, humour and heart into every scene. Kit could easily become a sidekick character; Brasier ensures she emerges as one of the evening’s emotional anchors.
Then there’s Tim Omaji, whose versatility deserves a standing ovation all of its own. Playing multiple roles including Happy Man and Mr Thompson, Omaji serves as the show’s connective tissue, effortlessly shifting between characters while bringing charm, wit and impeccable stage presence to every appearance. His work is a masterclass in transformation and timing.
As Philip Stuckey, Douglas Hansell embraces the role’s sleazy corporate arrogance with gusto. Crude, manipulative and increasingly unhinged, Hansell creates exactly the kind of antagonist audiences love to loathe. Every appearance raises the stakes, and he attacks the role with delicious confidence.
The supporting cast is packed with scene-stealing talent. Each featured performer finds opportunities to shine, creating a world that feels bustling, vibrant and alive.
Particular mention must go to Adelaide’s own Jordan Tomljenovic, whose Giulio is an absolute delight. Equal parts flamboyant, hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt, Tomljenovic lands some of the biggest laughs of the evening with impeccable comic timing.
Callum Warrender also makes a memorable impact, particularly during the opera sequence. His vocal work is nothing short of impeccable, providing one of the production’s most stunning musical highlights and beautifully capturing the transformative power of art that sits at the heart of Vivian’s journey.
It was also wonderful to spot local talent Matt Prime among the outstanding ensemble, whose energy and commitment contribute significantly to the show’s polish.
Speaking of the ensemble, they are sensational. Whether navigating the streets of Hollywood, bringing Rodeo Drive to life, or delivering the high-energy production numbers, every performer contributes to an experience that never loses momentum. Their precision, character work and infectious enthusiasm ensure the world of Pretty Woman feels fully realised from curtain up to curtain call.
Visually, the musical is sleek, vibrant and thoroughly entertaining. The choreography bursts with energy, the costumes are every bit as glamorous as fans could hope for, and the set and transitions move with cinematic efficiency.
Filled with memorable songs, standout performances and genuine heart, this Australian production proves that fairy tales can still feel fresh.
The big question is, did they treat us so nice, we’re never going to let them go?
Absolutely.
Pretty Woman the Musical is funny, romantic, glamorous and overflowing with talent from top to bottom. To borrow one of Vivian’s most famous lines, missing this musical would be a big mistake. HUGE.
Go see it.
5 stars
Lia Loves.
