After a rocky start in Chicago, the musical adaptation of the iconic 2000s fashion drama “The Devil Wears Prada” is set for a reinvigorated debut in London.
The production, featuring new songs by Sir Elton John, lyrics by Shaina Taub, and a script by Kate Wetherhead, has undergone significant changes in the hopes of dazzling audiences anew.
The initial run in Chicago received mixed reviews, with critics pointing out tonal inconsistencies and less-than-stellar costumes. The production seemed caught between wanting to be an all-out camp extravaganza and a more nuanced commentary on toxic workplace culture.
Broadway veteran Jerry Mitchell has now taken over as the director and choreographer, bringing his extensive experience to the table. The team has gone back to the drawing board, aiming to address the criticisms and elevate the production to the high standards expected of a Broadway-bound show.
London will serve as the pre-Broadway testing ground for the revamped musical. The show is slated to arrive at the Dominion Theatre next October, following initial performances in Plymouth over the summer.
For those unfamiliar, “The Devil Wears Prada” originated as a 2003 book by Lauren Weisberger, which was subsequently adapted into a hit 2006 film starring Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway. The story revolves around the tyrannical fashion editor Miranda Priestly and her beleaguered assistant Andy, exploring the dark underbelly of the fashion industry.
Casting details are yet to be confirmed, but given the iconic roles originally portrayed by Streep and Hathaway, the new cast will have some rather large shoes to fill. Fans can sign up on the official website to be the first to know about casting announcements and ticket sales.
With a new director and a second chance to make a first impression, the musical adaptation of “The Devil Wears Prada” is one to watch. Whether it will live up to its cinematic predecessor remains to be seen, but the involvement of musical legend Elton John suggests that the show still has plenty of potential to be a hit.
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