There is something refreshing about walking into a large-scale theatre production that feels new. Pretty Woman: The Musical, now showing at Montecasino Teatro, brings a well-loved story to the stage with dramatic flair, delivering a polished and uplifting night out. Based on the iconic movie, the musical follows Vivian, a spirited young woman, and Edward, a wealthy businessman, as their unexpected connection unfolds into a story of transformation, romance, and self-discovery.
I thoroughly enjoyed this show from start to finish. It has a light, upbeat tone, with romantic moments that push the boundaries slightly but are handled with restraint, keeping everything classy. The script introduces clever comedic elements that add something new to a story most of us already know, which keeps it engaging and fast-paced throughout.
The performances are a real highlight in this show, reminding us of the incredible acting talent we have in South Africa. Leah Mari and Chris Jaftha are both superb in their lead roles, holding the story together with consistently strong performances. Tiaan Rautenbach brings excellent comedic timing across multiple roles and is a real treat to watch, while Bo Molefe adds a unique sparkle through his expressive movement and wonderful stage presence. Thuto Lesedi Gaasenswe stands out as Kit De Luca, bringing warmth and energy to her role as Vivian’s best friend.
What stayed with me most was how enjoyable it all was. It is a feel-good production with just enough edge to keep it interesting, while still honouring the original. It is also fantastic to see a new large-scale show on stage, rather than another return run of something we have seen many times before.
Pretty Woman: The Musical is on at the Montecasino Teatro until 31 May 2026. Book tickets at Tickemaster.