Newark Advertiser review: Pretty Woman The Musical, now showing at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal until Saturday, September 7.

Filled with heart and laughter in equal measure, this is the sort of show you can’t help but smile at.

Inspired by the 1990 blockbuster film of the same name, Pretty Woman The Musical strikes the right balance between honouring the much loved original rom com while adapting it to the stage.

Transported back in time to the neon bathed streets of 1980s LA, we meet wealthy businessman Edward as he crosses paths with Vivian, a prostitute who dreams of escape.

After their chance encounter, they strike a deal where he will pay her to act as his companion for the week, but can the pair keep it strictly to business?

Feeling like a fish out of water and exposed to a whole new life she never thought was obtainable to a girl like her, Vivian has to manage her feelings.

It sounds a little intense, but if I were to describe this show in one word it would simply be, fun. Lots and lots of fun!

Everyone on stage looked as if they were having the best time and that energy radiated over the audience, who lapped up the story.

There was almost a pantomime feel at times with subtle fourth wall breaks, slapstick comedy and even a buttons-esque bellboy character to break up some of the more serious moments.

Julia Roberts’ shoes were always going to be tough to fill, however, Amber Davies gave a spectacular performance as Vivian, managing to match the same down to earth and endearing energy that made the role so iconic in the first place, while also adding something new.

Together with accomplished stage actor Oliver Savile as Edward, they were utterly convincing as two strangers falling in love.

At first it felt a little awkward, but what relationship isn’t at the start? By the end everyone was cheering them on.

But by far the stand out performance came from Ore Oduba who pulled it all together as both the lovable hotel manager Mr Thompson and the self aware Happy Man handing out life advice and positivity on the street.

He danced, he sang, he gave heart felt speeches and made us laugh. He was a multi talented entertainment machine.

To anyone that loves the original film and to anyone who just wants to laugh and have fun, this is a show well worth your time.

Pretty Woman The Musical is now showing at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal until Saturday, September 7.

—FB