Walking down the street

Pretty Woman is walking down the street to Broadway in a brand new musical version! One of the most beloved films of the 90s, Pretty Woman launched the career of Julia Roberts and set the template for every romantic comedy to come. The story follows a rich businessman who falls in love with a sex worker he hires to escort him to a week of social functions. Created by the movie's director, the late Gary Marshall, this new version will flesh out the characters, promising a more "positive" take on the story.

Even though we all know Pretty Woman, the creators of this upcoming musical know the original story line won't go down to well with modern audiences. Therefore, the Vivian we once knew will now be a stronger and a more independent heroine for the 21st century.

This stage adaptation packs quite a creative punch. Marshall's vision is fulfilled by the movie's scribe J.F Lawton in penning the libretto, while Canadian rock god Bryan Adams and his songwriting partner Jim Vallance provide the score. Directing and choreographing the show is two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, On Your Feet!).

What is Pretty Woman About?

A ruthless and driven business tycoon, Edward specializes in taking over businesses and then selling them off, piece by piece, totally unsympathetic to the hundreds of employees' lives he destroys. During a trip to LA, he finds himself without a partner for series of schmaltzy functions, so hires a sex worker to act as his escort. The lady of the night he chooses is Vivian, who much like Edward, goes about her work with a clinical detachment.

As their week together progresses, this usually isolated couple find themselves utterly comfortable in each other's company and discover that they might just be falling for each other. Can this blossoming romance turn both of their lives around?

Did You Know?

The movie may be a light and charming romance, but the story started out very differently. The original script was a dark drama, with a much more downbeat ending. Once Gere and Roberts were cast, however, it was clear that the pair generated such chemistry together that the movie's tone needed to be lightened.