Podcast Summary: MickeyJoTheatre - "The Devil Wears Prada (Dominion Theatre, West End) - ★★★ REVIEW"

Host: MickeyJoTheatre
Episode Release Date: December 7, 2024
Podcast Title: MickeyJoTheatre
YouTube Channel: MickeyJoTheatre
Subscribers: 60,000+

1. Introduction

In this episode, Mickey-Jo provides an in-depth review of "The Devil Wears Prada" musical, which recently premiered at London's Dominion Theatre in the West End. Known for his comprehensive theatre critiques, Mickey-Jo delves into the production's strengths and shortcomings, offering listeners a detailed analysis of its various facets.

2. Background of the Musical

"The Devil Wears Prada" musical is an adaptation of the iconic 2006 film starring Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci. The story, originally based on Lauren Weisberger's semi-autobiographical 2003 novel, follows Andrea Sachs, an aspiring journalist navigating the high-stakes world of fashion magazine Runway, led by the formidable Miranda Priestly.

Mickey-Jo highlights the musical's journey:

"With a completely new cast and a largely new creative team spearheaded by Jerry Mitchell... has this musical adaptation managed to redeem its reputation?" ([00:03])

The European premiere signifies a fresh take, distancing itself from the lukewarm reception of its Chicago counterpart by introducing a revamped cast and creative vision.

3. Creative Team

The production boasts a stellar creative ensemble:

• Director & Choreographer: Jerry Mitchell, renowned for successful adaptations like "Legally Blonde," "Pretty Woman," and "Kinky Boots."
• Music Composer: Sir Elton John, contributing to scores alongside Shayna Taub, a two-time Tony Award-winning writer.
• Lyricist: Shayna Taub, known for her work on the musical "Suffs."
• Book Writer: Kate Weatherhead, formerly of the original Broadway cast of "Legally Blonde" and co-creator of the web series "Submissions Only."

Mickey-Jo expresses optimism about the team's potential:

"With the addition of Jerry Mitchell and everything that he was saying about, you know, no longer having it be set in the present day... left me feeling very encouraged." ([00:07])

4. Initial Impressions

Mickey-Jo approached the review with a critical yet open mindset, eager to assess whether the new production could surpass previous adaptations. His expectations were cautiously high, given the creative team's pedigree.

5. Music and Score

The collaboration between Sir Elton John and Shayna Taub brings a blend of classic Elton melodies with modern theatrical flair. Mickey-Jo praises specific numbers:

"How to Survive at Runway... is this brilliant theatrical song sung by Amy de Bartolomeo as Emily." ([00:25])

However, he notes areas for improvement:

"I just want it to feel like one of those jewellery commercials or perfume commercials, where it's very, like, grand and sweeping and dramatic." ([00:30])

While the score is engaging and pop-infused, Mickey-Jo feels certain moments lack the depth needed to convey the story's emotional weight.

6. Book by Kate Weatherhead

Kate Weatherhead's adaptation retains iconic moments from the film, reimagining them for the stage. Mickey-Jo appreciates the preservation of key dialogues and character interactions but criticizes the lack of emotional depth:

"We don't really feel anything. It feels a little soulless." ([00:38])

He suggests that critical character moments could benefit from more nuanced musical expressions to enhance audience connection.

7. Direction and Design

Under Jerry Mitchell's direction, the production excels visually:

• Set Design: Tim Hatley's expansive and dynamic sets make full use of the Dominion Theatre's vast stage.
• Costumes: Greg Barnes and Pamela Rowland deliver stunning, stylish outfits that highlight character transformations, especially Andy's evolution.
• Lighting and Sound: Gareth Owen's sound design complements the high-energy performances, while the lighting accentuates the show's grandeur.

Mickey-Jo commends the technical aspects:

"Every second that you are looking in the direction of that stage. There is no empty space whatsoever." ([01:10])

8. Performances

A. Georgie Buckland as Andrea "Andy" Sachs

Georgie Buckland delivers a standout performance, flawlessly capturing Andy's transformation from an indifferent assistant to a determined professional. Her vocal prowess and emotional depth make her central to the show's success:

"She sounds phenomenal, great on this kind of a poppy score, but she really nails the characterization of this material as well." ([01:20])

B. Vanessa Williams as Miranda Priestly

Vanessa Williams offers a compelling portrayal of Miranda Priestly, balancing power and vulnerability. Mickey-Jo appreciates her ability to command the stage without overshadowing her co-stars:

"She does it with such remarkable ease. She is so calm and poised and collected throughout this production." ([01:45])

Williams brings a fresh perspective to Miranda, distancing the character from Meryl Streep's portrayal while maintaining the role's intimidating allure.

C. Matt Henry as Nigel

Matt Henry's performance as Nigel infuses the character with charisma and depth, particularly in his solo number that explores his personal journey:

"The song 'Scene' is really beautiful. I also love that he offhand mentions his husband." ([02:10])

His portrayal adds layers to Nigel, making him more relatable and endearing to the audience.

D. Amy de Bartolomeo as Emily

Amy de Bartolomeo shines as Emily, bringing comedic timing and emotional resonance to the role. Mickey-Jo highlights her ability to balance humor with the character's underlying struggles:

"She is hilarious. It is so well characterized the Frenzy and the poise and the ambition and the sadness behind all of it." ([02:30])

E. Supporting Cast

Supporting actors, including Rhys Whitfield as Andy's boyfriend and James Darch as Christian Thompson, deliver strong performances that complement the leads without detracting from the main narrative.

9. Character Analysis

Mickey-Jo delves into the complexity of the characters:

• Andy: A relatable protagonist whose journey embodies personal growth and the sacrifices made for career advancement.
• Miranda: A multifaceted antagonist whose rigidity masks deeper vulnerabilities.
• Nigel: Represents the supportive figure whose personal revelations add emotional depth.
• Emily: Balances ambition with personal insecurities, making her more than just a secondary character.

10. Strengths and Shortcomings

Strengths:

• Visual Spectacle: The production's design elements are top-notch, creating an immersive experience.
• Performances: The lead actors deliver compelling and nuanced portrayals.
• Music: Sir Elton John's score brings high energy and memorable melodies.

Shortcomings:

• Emotional Depth: Certain narrative moments lack the necessary emotional resonance, resulting in a somewhat soulless feel.
• Character Development: Some character arcs, particularly Andy's, could benefit from more substantial development to enhance audience investment.

Mickey-Jo encapsulates his critique:

"We don't really feel anything. It feels a little soulless." ([02:50])

11. Overall Conclusion

Mickey-Jo concludes that while "The Devil Wears Prada" musical excels in entertainment value, visual grandeur, and strong performances, it falls short in delivering the emotional connectivity that could elevate it beyond a mere adaptation. Nonetheless, he acknowledges its appeal to fans of the original story and those seeking a stylish, high-energy theatrical experience.

"I do criticize it and I can say, you know, there's places where I'd like to feel a little more. And this is not, I think, the best musical adaptation of any film that we've ever seen. I will still be going back. This is super watchable. This is entertaining." ([03:15])

Mickey-Jo recommends the show to enthusiasts of the franchise and acknowledges its potential for success despite its flaws.

12. Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "I have to assume for the majority of the people going to see the Devil Wears Prada musical, this is delivering everything that they need it to. It's fun, it's flashy, it's very stylish, but that's all." ([00:00])

• "How to Survive at Runway is this brilliant theatrical song sung by Amy de Bartolomeo as Emily." ([00:25])

• "Every second that you are looking in the direction of that stage. There is no empty space whatsoever." ([01:10])

• "She sounds phenomenal, great on this kind of a poppy score, but she really nails the characterization of this material as well." ([01:20])

• "She does it with such remarkable ease. She is so calm and poised and collected throughout this production." ([01:45])

• "The song 'Scene' is really beautiful. I also love that he offhand mentions his husband." ([02:10])

• "She is hilarious. It is so well characterized the Frenzy and the poise and the ambition and the sadness behind all of it." ([02:30])

• "We don't really feel anything. It feels a little soulless." ([02:50])

• "I will still be going back. This is super watchable. This is entertaining." ([03:15])

Final Thoughts

MickeyJoTheatre's review offers a balanced perspective on "The Devil Wears Prada" musical, highlighting its visual splendor and strong performances while critiquing its emotional engagement. For theatre enthusiasts and fans of the original narrative, this production presents a worthwhile, albeit imperfect, theatrical experience.

Connect with MickeyJoTheatre:

• YouTube: MickeyJoTheatre
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Join the Conversation:
Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences of the musical in the comments section or on social media platforms, fostering a community discussion around the production's impact and interpretations.