In a thrilling announcement for theatre enthusiasts across South Africa, Pretty Woman: The Musical is set to make its highly-anticipated debut at the Artscape Theatre in Cape Town on 18 March 2026, followed by a season at Montecasino’s Teatro from 24 April 2026.
This beloved classic, made famous by the iconic 1990 film starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, will not only revisit nostalgic storytelling but also feature captivating music from renowned rock superstar Bryan Adams, along with his longtime songwriting partner Jim Vallance, and the classic title track ‘Oh, Pretty Woman’ by Roy Orbison.
The lead role of Vivian Ward will be brought to life by the talented Leah Mari. Mari, who first dazzled audiences in her professional debut as the alternate ‘Maria’ in The Sound of Music (2023/24), has already claimed a Fleur du Cap Theatre Award for ‘Best Performance by a Lead Actress in a Musical’ for her performance as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady (2024/25).
Her most recent role as Kitty in CHICAGO The Musical further cements her status as one of South Africa’s most promising talents.
Joining Mari is Christopher Jaftha as the suave businessman Edward Lewis. Jaftha has earned acclaim for his versatility across a range of roles, most notably as Potiphar in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.
His stage experience includes appearances in African Footprint, Aladdin, and West Side Story, and he is also recognised for his recent NFTA Best Actor nomination for the film Khaki Fever.
The powerhouse cast also features Thuto Lesedi Gaasenwe as Kit De Luca, Vivian’s best friend, alongside Tiaan Rautenbach in the role of Happy Man, the hotel manager. Daniel Conradie takes on the role of Edward’s lawyer, Philip Stuckey.
The ensemble boasts over 50 South African talents, highlighting a robust cast of 24, supported by a six-piece band, crew, and a creative team dedicated to bringing this vibrant musical to life.
The ensemble cast includes noted performers Bo Molefe, Bradley Smith, Stuart Brown, among others, each bringing their unique flair to the production. The creativity doesn’t stop there; the musical is produced by Showtime Management in collaboration with Crossroads Live North America.
The impressive international creative team features Rusty Mowery, an Associate Director and Associate Choreographer known for his Broadway acclaim, and Will van Dyke as Musical Supervisor—all working alongside South Africa’s own Resident Director and Choreographer, Darren Greeff.
With a storyline based on the original film’s charm, Pretty Woman: The Musical promises an uplifting journey through the unlikely romance between the rough-edged Vivian and the refined businessman Edward. The show, known for its exhilarating love story, laughter, and toe-tapping songs, aims to create a delightful trip down memory lane for audiences.
The musical first premiered on Broadway in 2018, and after successful runs in the West End and various tours across North America and Europe, it is finally coming to South Africa.
As Hazel Feldman of Showtime Management noted, ‘We’re so proud to be able to produce the debut South African run of this wonderful modern musical with an all-South African cast, crew and band. The story will take audiences back to the classic film, and they’ll also fall in love with the fantastic music and the incredible performances of our actors, singers, and dancers,’
Tickets for this must-see production are already available for purchase at showtime.co.za or ticketmaster.co.za. Don’t miss the chance to witness a performance that promises to be as dazzling as the film it’s based on.
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Picture: Supplied
