Vanessa Williams Shines at The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical Opening in London
The much-anticipated The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical opened to rapturous applause in London on December 1, 2024. Vanessa Williams led the star-studded cast, bringing Miranda Priestly to life in this Broadway-inspired production featuring a score by Elton John. The glamorous evening unfolded at the Dominion Theatre, followed by an afterparty at the British Museum, cementing the event as a landmark in fashion and theatre.
Event Highlights: The Devil Wears Prada Musical Premiere
| Event Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | December 1, 2024 |
| Location | Dominion Theatre (Premiere), British Museum (Afterparty) |
| Lead Star | Vanessa Williams as Miranda Priestly |
| Music by | Elton John |
| Notable Attendees | Donatella Versace, Elton John, Lily Collins, Anna Wintour, Zandra Rhodes, Betsey Johnson, Elizabeth Hurley, Luke Evans |
| Afterparty Highlights | Espresso martinis, live performances, iconic quotes in decor, pink-and-red lighting in the Egyptian Galleries |
Vanessa Williams as Miranda Priestly
At 61, Vanessa Williams delivered a commanding performance as Miranda Priestly, exuding charisma and sharp wit. Her wardrobe, inspired by the character’s trademark elegance, featured bold power suits, chic sunglasses, and luxurious Hermès handbags. Williams seamlessly captured Priestly’s essence, leaving audiences spellbound.
Read more:Light and Variable Winds to kick off December
Star-Studded Red Carpet
The opening night attracted high-profile attendees from both fashion and entertainment. Lily Collins dazzled in a Vivienne Westwood gown, previously spotted at the charity gala premiere. Elton John and David Furnish graced the royal box alongside Donatella Versace, whose laughter during a witty on-stage Versace reference delighted the audience. Anna Wintour attended in a signature Prada ensemble, further solidifying the night’s fashion credentials.
Standout Cast Performances
The musical featured standout performances:
- Georgie Buckland as Andy Sachs, the endearing protagonist.
- Amy Di Bartolomeo as Emily, delivers comedic brilliance with her biting one-liners.
- Matt Henry as Nigel, the sharp yet empathetic deputy editor.
Di Bartolomeo’s portrayal of Emily particularly stole the show, eliciting thunderous laughter with her iconic quips.
Elton John’s Touching Address
Elton John addressed the audience after the curtain call, expressing his gratitude to the creative team and sharing a heartfelt moment about his ongoing health struggles, including vision loss. Despite these challenges, John praised the musical’s sound and energy, receiving an extended standing ovation.
A Fashion Wonderland Afterparty
The afterparty at the British Museum featured:
- Themed Decor: Mini Coopers topped with famous The Devil Wears Prada quotes.
- Live Entertainment: A band performed hits from the Pointer Sisters to Tina Turner.
- Glamorous Ambiance: Guests mingled in the Egyptian Galleries under vibrant pink and red lights.
FAQs: The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical Premiere
1. Who stars as Miranda Priestly in the musical?
Vanessa Williams portrays Miranda Priestly, delivering a stunning performance honouring the character’s legacy.
2. Who composed the music for the show?
Sir Elton John composed the musical score, adding a dazzling soundtrack to the production.
3. Where did the premiere and afterparty take place?
The premiere was held at the Dominion Theatre in London, followed by an afterparty at the British Museum.
4. What were some standout moments from the show?
Amy Di Bartolomeo’s performance as Emily and Elton John’s emotional address were among the highlights.
5. Is the musical faithful to the original movie?
Yes, many beloved moments and gags from the film have been adapted for the stage, including iconic lines and character arcs.
