Missing Pretty Woman in Austin would be a big mistake.

There have been many adaptations of films turned into musicals. Of course, there are the popular ones that we’ve all heard of, like The Producers, Beetlejuice, Hairspray, and Moulin Rouge. There are even decent musicals based on newer films such as Legally Blonde, The Waitress and Mean Girls. But sometimes non-musical films turned into Broadway shows turn out to be a big mistake. However, “Pretty Woman” is not one of those.

Bryan Adams (yes, the same Bryan Adams) and Jim Vallance wrote the music and lyrics for Pretty Woman. The book was written by J.F. Lawton and Garry Marshall, who wrote and directed the 1990 film.

To refresh your memory, the story centers around free-spirited Hollywood prostitute Vivian Ward, who is hired by wealthy businessman Edward Lewis to escort several business and social events. You’ll follow the development of their relationship over the course of her week-long stay, which Vivian eventually finds for her fairy tale ending.

Some highlights of the touring production of Pretty Woman include:

• “Rodeo Drive”. When Keith and Company sing about Rodeo Drive, baby, you smile and applaud as you remember that famous line from the movie.
• “You are beautiful.” In the final song of the first act, Edward and company sing along with Vivian as she is finally treated to some real shopping. She then returns to the arrogant boutique on Rodeo Drive to tell the saleswomen that they have made a big mistake. Huge.
• As Keith De Luca, Jessica Crouch delivers some of the show’s most powerful vocals. She’s outstanding and a pleasure to watch on stage.
• The role of the bellboy is not the main one, but this does not prevent Michael Dalke from making this character one of our favorites. I would advise you to keep an eye on him when he is filming scenes, but to be honest, I don’t need to tell you that.
• While most of the music is original, there is one cover. As you may have guessed, this is “Oh, Pretty Woman” by Roy Orbison. You won’t hear it until the end of the show and it’s a great way to end the evening.

Now I need to talk about the biggest highlight of the production. When I entered Bass, I had no idea that Adam Pascal would play the role made famous by Richard Gere. This name may seem unfamiliar to you (Pascal, not Gere), but the show he starred in as part of the original cast should be. Pascal is the real Roger from Rent! He also plays this role in the film adaptation. He’s great and definitely makes this show worth the price of admission.

Speaking of entry, tickets are only $30 and can be purchased. HERE.

Pretty Woman will take place on Sunday, January 22 at the Bass Concert Hall.

Photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade.