'Pretty Woman: The Musical' struts onto Broadway

REUTERS: The beloved 1990's hit movie, Pretty Woman has become a Broadway musical. The show officially opened on Thursday (August 16) night with Susan Lucci and Debbie Gibson among the all-star guests. Pop star Bryan Adams co-wrote original music and lyrics for the production but didn't rely on the film to help him compose. "I saw it a long time ago too, but I was more interested in what the current - what we were doing now. I didn't want to reference too much from the past." British actress Samantha Barks takes on Julia Robert's role of Vivian, a prostitute who meets and falls in love with a rich businessman, Edward Lewis. Barks said she prepared for the role by starting fresh. "The fact that we have songs in this means that it's already going to be different. And you have to interrupt it for yourself and not - absolutely not ignoring that beautifully iconic performance, but doing your own thing as well, honoring it and making it your own." The cast also includes Andy Karl as Edward, a role made famous by Richard Gere and his real-life wife, Orfeh, who portrays Kit.