The Devil Wears Prada
27 November 2024
Dominion Theatre
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Devil Wears Prada, a new musical based on the film and novel of the same name, is currently running at the Dominion Theatre until 31st March 2025. The show stars Vanessa Williams as Miranda Priestly and Georgie Buckland as Andy.
Another blockbuster turned musical is bursting onto the West End this holiday season. But does this one stand up to the hype? The theatre definitely pulled out all the stops with plenty of photo ops throughout the theatre. The circle foyer and bar have a selection of gorgeous gowns to ogle as well as a large RUNWAY magazine photo box for patrons to pose as the cover model. There is an air of excitement permeating the waiting crowds before the auditorium even opens. The show starts with Emily, expertly played as a snooty fashionista by Amy Di Bartolomeo, strutting out onto the stage to make an announcement to turn off phones, setting the mood perfectly for the performance to come.
Following the plot and scenes of the film very closely, The Devil Wears Prada is a triumph of screen to stage magic, with up-beat and catchy songs added to the mix. Aesthetically the costumes and set pieces also mirror the film, though the first act does seem a little lacklustre with small set pieces on a large stage with a gorgeous New York skyline backdrop, this definitely changes to stunning scenery once the action shifts to Paris fashion week. Vibrant and colourful, the costuming is of course high fashion throughout and expertly chosen, elevating the choreographies and larger scenes to sensational visuals.
A strong injection of humour makes The Devil Wears Prada the show of the season and an absolute must-see for any musical lover of fan of the film. The transition from a beloved film to a dynamic musical is extremely well done for this one, adding dazzling song and dance to the familiar feel of the plot and scenery. It’s not deep or transformational, but an excellent piece of entertainment nonetheless.
The absolute stand-out performance by Amy Di Bartolomeo as Emily alone is worth the ticket price, with Williams portraying a fantastic Miranda and a very strong West End debut by Georgie Buckland as a movie-accurate Andy. A dazzling and energetic new musical with staying power!
