London’s West End has a new diamond in its sparkling crown, and it’s dripping in red sequins and ruthless ambition. Devil Wears Prada: The Musical has stormed into the city, transforming the red velvet interiors of the Dominion Theatre into a glamorous combination of fashion, fame, and fire.
By Klaudia Hostynska – Features Editor
Credit: Klaudia Hostynska
Before the curtain rises, guests are treated to a sensory tease: known hits from the beloved 2006 movie echo through the theatre, setting the nostalgic tone. A thick veil of smoke comes from the centre of the stage, tinted by ominous red light that makes it feel as if you’re staring into the gates of hell or perhaps Miranda Priestly’s office.
The crowd itself is a dazzling mix, united in their appreciation for style. All flip through elegant handouts, anticipating the awaited start. “I hope they’re going to make it more like the book. I feel like a lot of things were missing in the movie,” said Kirsty Fullaghar, 42, who works as a nursery practitioner.
When the show finally begins, it does not disappoint. The introduction is nothing short of stunning, lavish set designs and flawless lighting transport you into the elite world of Runway magazine. The production is masterful with seamless scene changes, clever projection use, and an incredible sound system.
The cast is the perfect recreation of the book’s characters. Miranda Priestly, in particular, is portrayed with chilling perfection, icy stares, hushed commands, and a wardrobe to kill for. One scene leaves jaws on the floor as the stage transforms into a five-story wardrobe wall, each level showcasing high-fashion items. All the outfits were carefully chosen for the cast members, making it a spitting image of the book with a modern twist of neon, breathing 2025 into a story born in 2003.
Credit: Klaudia Hostynska
“I am obsessed, this is one of the best musicals I’ve seen so far, the only thing that was a disappointment was when Andy changed her outfit to look like the other girls, I mean, come on, they could’ve done so much better,” said Ava Kenning, 23, who’s a student from Canterbury.
The red-carpet moment, on the other hand, is a showstopper. Security guards stand on each side wearing devil horns and black suits. Miranda herself appears in a floor-length red sequin gown that glistens all the way to the back rows.
“The Paris scene must have been one of the best theatrical scenes in History, not even just the equipment, but for a moment, you were really feeling as if you were at a real fashion show, it’s like having two things ticked off the list at once,” said Fullaghar.
The overall experience is full of fun and fearless fashion. Whether you’re a fan of the book, the movie or simply in it for the theatre, this adaptation promises a night of unforgettable style and attitude. It’s a production that invites you to step into the world of high fashion – heels first.
Kirsty Fullaghar on the Musical Adaptation
Add comment
Comments