Last Updated on October 2, 2025
Recipe for Success: Star Power and Pop Sensation in The Devil Wears Prada, London West End
How do you create a recipe for a hit musical these days? Take some Hollywood star power, songs written by a pop music legend, a story and branding lifted from a hit movie and a bright new talent in her first starring role, and put it all in a theatrical blender. Out pops The Devil Wears Prada, a new musical that has just opened at the Dominion, Tottenham Court Road in London’s West End.
This highly anticipated West End production of The Devil Wears Prada struts into the West End, following in the stylish footsteps of the beloved 2006 film, itself an adaptation of Lauren Weisberger’s 2003 novel. Slickly directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell, with a sparkling score by Elton John and a clever, witty book by Kate Wetherhead, this stage adaptation comes with no shortage of star power.
Taking on the iconic role of Miranda Priestly, famously immortalised by Meryl Streep, is celebrated American actress and singer Vanessa Williams, a performer with a résumé as dazzling as the gowns in Priestley’s closet, Williams is best known for her Emmy and SAG-nominated turn as Wilhelmina Slater in Ugly Betty, a character equally at home in the high-stakes world of fashion. Rising from the stage on press night to a rapturous ovation, Williams brings poise, panache, and just the right amount of icy glamour to a role she inhabits with effortless style.
The story centres on Andy Sachs, an aspiring journalist who unexpectedly lands a job as a junior assistant at the prestigious yet ruthless Runway magazine, despite her limited knowledge or interest in the fashion world. Thrown into the orbit of the formidable editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly, Andy must navigate the relentless demands of high fashion, testing her resilience and adaptability. As she immerses herself in this glamorous yet cutthroat environment, Andy’s journey forces her to confront her own values and priorities, straining her relationship with boyfriend Nate. Torn between career ambition and staying true to herself, Andy’s story is one of self-discovery and the challenges of forging one’s path in a world obsessed with appearances.
Before the curtain even rises for The Devil Wears Prada, the audience is treated to a hilariously biting introduction by Emily, Miranda’s high-strung and ultra-ambitious senior assistant. Strutting onto the stage in sky-high heels and a head-to-toe designer ensemble, she delivers a few sharp-witted remarks about silencing phones and theatre etiquette, setting the tone for the glamour and sass to come. Amy Di Bartolomeo’s portrayal of Emily brilliantly captures her neurotic, judgmental nature, fierce dedication to her job, often at the expense of her health and personal life, and the mix of disdain and rivalry that defines her interactions with Andy.
Newcomer Georgie Buckland makes a striking West End debut as Miranda’s assistant, Andy. Stepping into shoes made famous by Anne Hathaway in the film, a daunting feat for any performer, Buckland rises to the challenge with a standout performance. She convincingly charts Andy’s journey from a suitably dowdy and earnest newcomer to a confident, self-assured young woman who knows her own mind. Along the way, she delivers some powerhouse solo numbers that showcase her vocal prowess and stage presence. If this debut is any indication, Buckland is poised for a dazzling career in musical theatre.
This production is as sleek and precise as Miranda’s signature scowl.
Tim Hatley’s commanding set design, featuring stunning backdrops of the New York skyline and a glittering Eiffel Tower, captures both the city’s dynamism and the romantic allure of Paris. Enhanced by Bruno Poet’s dazzling lighting, the visuals sparkle with sophistication, perfectly complementing the high-fashion world of Runway.
They say the devil has all the best tunes but does the Elton John score for The Devil Wears Prada live up to its hype? The songs were a typical Elton John gumbo of classic American musical genres, from country blues to Philadelphia soul with a seasoning of gospel, jazz and rock and roll. None of them were hugely memorable – nothing has ever replaced the magical synergy between the Pinner pianist’s melodies and Bernie Taupin’s lyrics – but they pushed the drama along effectively creating some memorable moments and effective choreographic opportunities. Shaina Taub and Mark Sonnenblick’s lyrics were as sharp as a pair of Louboutin heels with some great jokes and clever wordplay.
Standout numbers included “I Only Love You for Your Body,” a heartfelt duet between Andy and her boyfriend Nate (charmingly portrayed by Rhys Whitfield), evoking shades of Elton John and Kiki Dee’s classic “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.” Meanwhile, “Bon Voyage” brings lively energy with its catchy hooks, while Matt Henry shines as Nigel, adding even more sparkle with his standout number, “Dress Your Way Up.”
The ensemble dazzles in a series of stunning, glamorous outfits designed by Greg Barnes, perfectly capturing the essence of early-2000s New York office wear and Parisian fashion shows. However, I did find myself questioning Andy’s transformation outfit – she seemed to channel more of an Olivia Newton-John in Grease vibe than the polished, chic Chanel-style look worn by Anne Hathaway in the film version.
The Devil Wears Prada is undoubtedly a surefire ‘Runway’ success – funny, glamorous, and an undeniably great night out. The production impresses with its high-energy performances, stunning outfits, and sharp wit, delivering everything audiences expect from the world of Runway and beyond. But while it’s a spectacle that knows how to entertain, one can’t help but wonder if it truly explores the deeper themes of ambition, personal sacrifice, and identity that lie at the heart of its story. Still, who needs to dig too deep when the surface gleams so beautifully? For a night of unbridled fashion and fun, The Devil Wears Prada delivers in spades – who cares about depth when the glittering world of Runway is at your feet?
The Devil Wears Prada
The Dominion Theatre
268-269 Tottenham Ct Rd,
London W1T 7AQ
Book your tickets direct with the theatre here
Check what else is on over the Christmas season in our roundup of what shows to catch in the West End and Beyond
Leave a Reply