Theatre
Review
Review: The Devil Wears Prada
The latest film to stage adaptation at the Dominion is dressed to perfection
The Devil Wears Prada is the latest romcom getting to screen to stage treatment, and justly so. The 2006 film is considered one of the best in its genre, with iconic turns from Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci and Meryl Streep, and lines that have entered the cultural lexicon – including, of course, Miranda’s speech about how no-one is exempt from the influence of the fashion industry. It could be jarring to hear these words delivered by anyone other than Streep, but Vanessa Williams is wise enough not to stage an impression. Williams’ Miranda is less ice-queen and more apex predator, capable of striking at any moment. It’s a convincing take on the character, more than strong enough to settle any Streep purists.
Those who have seen the original film will know that Streep plays Miranda Priestly, the tyrannical editor-in-chief of Runway, a Vogue stand-in, industry-defining fashion publication. When serious journalist Andy (played onstage by Georgie Buckland) wins a highly coveted job as Miranda’s second assistant, she finds herself changing who she thought she was in order to succeed in the unfamiliar world of high fashion. Her chef boyfriend Nate (Rhys Witfield/Jamie Bogyo), who wants her to stay true to herself, is made significantly less annoying in this version of the story, thanks in part to some convincing musical chemistry between the two. Urging her to change and change quickly is Miranda’s first assistant, Emily, played onstage by the indomitable Amy Di Bartolomeo, whose effervescent presence gives the veteran Williams a run for her money. Also shining is Matt Henry as Nigel, whose arc as an outcast turned major fashion authority is more of a focus in the show, and provides some surprisingly tender moments.
The style of it all is what we’re assembled in the Dominion for, of course, and The Devil Wears Prada is a visual delight. Making use of the digital backdrops starting to be common with big-budget West End shows, we’re treated to impressively three-dimensional views of New York and Paris, in front of which our characters parade in sharp silhouettes and towering heels – Di Bartolomeo in particular has some ankle-breakers to contend with. A larger than typical ensemble and some showstopping set pieces from designer Tim Hatley – including the regal Met steps and a glittering Eiffel Tower – make it all delightfully ostentatious. Unapologetically entertaining from start to finish, The Devil Wears Prada is a stylish treat.
The Devil Wears Prada is currently playing at the Dominion Theatre – find tickets here
