The Devil Wears Prada - Review

Dominion Theatre, London

*****

Music by Elton John

Lyrics by Shaina Taub and Mark Sonnenblick

Book by Kate Wetherhead

Based on the novel by Lauren Weisberger and the motion picture screenplay by Aline Brosh McKenna

Directed and choregraphed by Jerry Mitchell

Vanessa Williams

In a whip-smart fusion of stunning style and content, The Devil Wears Prada arrives in the West End to deliver the capital's most impressive new musical theatre production this year. Elton John's score soars from rock through blues, to balladry and soul, transforming this modern classic’s take on the fashion industry’s soulless brutality. Matching Sir Elton’s music, Jerry Mitchell’s direction and choreography takes the story on a sparkling transition from screen to stage.

Vanessa Williams returns to the London stage to lead the show as Miranda Priestly, the editor of fashion glossy Runway and a woman who can make or break careers in haute couture. Williams is an inspired casting choice with the presence that she imbues in Miranda as razor-sharp as her Louboutin heels. 

In an astonishing West End debut Georgie Buckland is Andy (Andrea), the story’s protagonist whose arc we follow as she starts off as Miranda’s novice personal assistant, but who rapidly learns how to shin the world of publishing’s famously greasy pole. Buckland is handed the lion’s share of the evening’s big numbers, closing both acts of the show with Miranda Girl and What’s Right For Me respectively, songs in which she rises to fill the Dominion’s massive space.

The show’s two other featured roles are Runway’s creative lead Nigel played by Matt Henry and Miranda’s long serving assistant Emily played by Amy Di Bartolomeo. Both are equally magnificent bringing power, pathos and humour to their respective performances.

Tim Hatley’s scenery, Gregg Barnes’s costumes and Bruno Poet’s lighting make for stunning visuals from the outset, while Katharine Woolley’s musical direction offers a fine interpretation of the compelling score.

The Devil Wears Prada is famous for showcasing fashion’s cutthroat competition with a story that revolves around aspirations, dreams and treachery in both the boardroom and the bedroom. It is a credit not only to Elton John, but to lyricist Shaina Taub and Mark Sonnenblick and to bookwriter Kate Wetherhead, that they have crafted such a fine adaptation of Weisberger’s original.

This musical is a mutli-million dollar extravaganza built on the highest production values. For those who enjoy a good story, compelling new writing and brilliant song and dance, The Devil Wears Prada is unmissable. 

Booking until 18th October 2025

Photo credit: Matt Crockett