Vivian Ward made it to Rodeo Drive and now she’s going all the way to Broadway. “Pretty Woman” is headed to the stage. According to the BBC, “Les Misérables” actress Samantha Barks will play the role of Vivian, made famous by Julia Roberts in the 1990 romantic comedy the musical is based on. Steve Kazee (“Once”) is taking on the role of Edward Lewis, originally played by Richard Gere.
The story follows the romance between a sex worker and a womanizing corporate raider.
Set to begin performances on Broadway next autumn, the show will have a five-week run in Chicago from March 13 through April 15, 2018 at the Oriental Theatre.
The film’s director, the late Gary Marshall, and J.F. Lawton, who penned the screenplay, wrote the book for the production. “Pretty Woman” will feature original music by Grammy winner Bryan Adams.
The show’s lead producer, Paula Wagner, said to expect the musical to have the “heart, humor, warmth, and joy of the film.” She added, “We found two amazing, charismatic actors with incredible chemistry to play Vivian and Edward — the gorgeous triple-threat Samantha Barks, and one of Broadway’s most dashing and talented leading men, Steve Kazee.”
“Pretty Woman” grossed over $463 million worldwide on a budget of $14 million. Roberts’ star-making role earned her a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination.
