Expert Review: Why The Devil Wears Prada Is Fashion-Forward Perfection

4.5
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

The Devil Wears Prada delivers a stylish, witty, and surprisingly heartfelt musical that proves fashion and substance can coexist beautifully. Vanessa Williams commands the stage as Miranda Priestly with a performance that's both terrifying and magnetic, while the production showcases some of the most stunning costume design currently on the West End.

What Makes It Irresistible

  • Vanessa Williams: The Tony-nominated star delivers a masterclass performance as Miranda Priestly, bringing complexity and nuance to the iconic role.
  • Fashion Spectacle: The costumes are works of art - every scene is a fashion show featuring cutting-edge design and jaw-dropping transformations.
  • Sharp Wit: The musical captures all the film's best moments while adding new layers of humor and emotional depth through song.
  • Empowering Message: Andy's journey from naive assistant to confident woman resonates with modern audiences seeking authentic female representation.

Perfect For

Fashion enthusiasts, fans of the original film, anyone who enjoys workplace comedy with bite, and those seeking a musical with strong female characters. The contemporary themes make it especially appealing to younger audiences and professionals.

Everything You Need to Know

From Ordinary to Extraordinary

Andy Sachs, a recent journalism graduate, lands what millions would kill for - a job as assistant to Miranda Priestly, the legendary editor-in-chief of Runway magazine. But working for the fashion world's most demanding boss proves more challenging than Andy ever imagined, forcing her to choose between her dreams and her identity.

What to Expect

  • A faithful adaptation that expands on the beloved film with new musical numbers
  • The glamorous world of high fashion brought to vivid theatrical life
  • Andy's transformation from dowdy assistant to fashion insider
  • Sharp workplace comedy that satirizes the fashion industry
  • An empowering story about finding your voice and staying true to yourself

The Fashion World

The musical takes audiences behind the scenes of a major fashion magazine, showcasing everything from chaotic photo shoots to Paris Fashion Week. The production accurately captures the fast-paced, high-pressure environment where style is everything and Miranda's word is law.

Music That's In Vogue

The score by Elton John and Shaina Taub perfectly captures the world of high fashion with sophisticated melodies that range from power ballads to upbeat ensemble numbers, all while maintaining the sharp wit of the source material.

Musical Highlights

  • "The Way Things Are" - Miranda's commanding opening number establishing her dominance
  • "Dress Your Way Up" - Andy's transformation montage brought to musical life
  • "What's Wrong with Me?" - Andy's vulnerable moment of self-doubt
  • "Runway" - The high-energy ensemble number showcasing the magazine world
  • "Here Beneath My Wings" - Miranda's surprising reveal of vulnerability

Fashion as Character

The costume design is truly a character in itself, with over 200 costume changes that showcase everything from haute couture to casual wear. Each outfit tells a story about the character's journey and status within the fashion hierarchy.

Fashion Fact: The production works with actual fashion designers and features costumes that could easily appear on real runways, making it a true celebration of contemporary fashion.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Monday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Wednesday & Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Friday: 8:00pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm

Getting to Dominion Theatre

  • Tube: Tottenham Court Road (2 min walk), Goodge Street (5 min)
  • Bus: Routes 14, 24, 29, 73, 134, 390 stop nearby
  • Train: Euston Station (10 minutes walk)
  • Parking: Q-Park Covent Garden (10 minutes walk)

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible seating available with advance booking
  • Hearing loops in designated areas
  • Audio described performances monthly
  • Step-free access via main entrance

Theatre Amenities

  • Multiple bars serving cocktails and refreshments
  • Merchandise shop with exclusive show items
  • Air conditioning throughout
  • Pre-show dining options nearby