Review: 'Pretty Woman: The Musical' lives up to its popular '90s fairy-tale namesake

Fun if not flawless, the Broadway in Columbus production of “Pretty Woman: The Musical” is at its best when it doesn't take itself too seriously, and at its worst when it tries to dig for some meaning deeper than fairy-tale frivolity.

The musical follows the romantic comedy beat for beat, often right down to the dialogue or the costumes the characters wear, and sticking to a time period the program describes as “once upon a time in the 1980s.”

'Pretty Woman: The Musical' true to film

In a candy-colored version of Los Angeles, spunky prostitute Vivian (Olivia Valli, the granddaughter of singer Frankie Valli) is propositioned by morose millionaire Edward (Adam Pascal): He wants her company not just for an evening, but also for the six days he needs to swing his latest deal, which for some reason not totally explicable, involves his occasionally having a woman on his arm.

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As the week unfolds, Edward's emotional defenses break down, while Vivian takes a liking to him as well as to the clothes and other goodies his credit card can provide.

They're given to expressing their feelings in big, none-too-subtle '90s-inspired musical numbers, crafted by Jim Vallance and Bryan Adams, who know the '90s.

Between the two of them, they've got more star power than the usual touring company of a musical, and thankfully, they don't apparently try to slavishly imitate Julia Roberts or Richard Gere.

Actors give their roles personality

Valli makes a giddily goofy Vivian, childishly delighted with all the new toys the week offers her, and though she earnestly takes on the big ballads about following her dreams and so forth that the part requires, she seems more at home with the playful, throw-away moments the musical often allows.

Pascal, who is best-known for the role of rock star Roger in the Broadway and Hollywood versions of “Rent,” has a satisfyingly luxuriant voice, though there sometimes seems to be a wide gap between the uptight character he plays and his lush musical expression.

Jessica Crouch makes the most of the opportunities provided for belting out big numbers in her role as Kit, Vivian's wisecracking best friend. And those with a taste for fairy-tale endings will be happy to see that Kit is awarded one of her own here.

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Taking over at least for the March 29 performance for “Happy Man,” a role scheduled to be played by Kyle Taylor Parker, swing performer Michael Dalke was charming as he switched nimbly between a kind of emcee supervising the action to the benign hotel manager who helps Vivian fit into society, as well as several other roles. Though not as vocally strong as the other lead characters, his dancing and acting made him a delightful addition to the story.

Among a relatively small and engaging ensemble, Trent Soyster stood out as a bedazzled bellboy, and Amma Osei for her powerful voice, particularly when she assumed the role of Violetta in "La traviata."

Technically, the show moved along smoothly and briskly, almost briskly enough to prevent audience members from thinking too deeply about the potentially troubling subject matter beneath the glossy surface.

The film's many fans should leave satisfied with its transformation into a frothy musical delight.

margaretquamme@hotmail.com

At a glance

"Pretty Woman: The Musical," will be performed at 7:30 p.m. March 30 and 31, 8 p.m. April 1, 2 and 8 p.m. April 2 and 1 and 6:30 p.m. April 3 at the Ohio Theatre, 39 E. State St. Masks and proof of vaccination or negative COVID test required. Tickets start at $39. (614-469-0939, www.capa.com)

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Review: Olivia Valli, Adam Pascal shine in 'Pretty Woman' musical