Photo credit Mark Senior
The iconic Dirty Dancing struts into town this week. The 1987 smash hit is a classic and is one of the best loved films of the era, with the tale of a summer holiday romance at Kellerman’s between dance teacher Johnny and guest ‘Baby’ made famous by Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey.
Michael O’Reilly and Kira Malou are perfectly cast in the leading roles and you are immersed in the action, so much so, it’s hard not to remember that you are not watching the original stars of the show. That’s to take nothing away from the fact that they do make the roles their own and it is not a shot for shot remake. The chemistry between the pair is clearly evident and they genuinely work so well with one another.
All the iconic scenes from the film are there for fans to enjoy and the creativity (and humour) of the scenes in the lake and dancing on the log, are simple, but so very cleverly put together.
The cast are just fabulous collectively and individually. Daisy Steere with Lisa’s classic ‘Hula’ performance, Colin Charles’ stellar opening to the second half with ‘Love Man’, Georgia Aspinall with her spectacular dance moves as Penny and Lydia Sterling and Danny Colligan’s wonderful vocals culminating in the classic ‘I’ve Had The Time Of My Life’ at the iconic final dance.
The atmosphere in the auditorium was electric, with every classic moment, line and musical number cheered and whooped. When the iconic lift at the end was performed (and it was performed beautifully) the audience were ecstatic and every one of the packed house were off their feet for the final few numbers.
Directed by Federico Bellone and Choreographed by Austin Wilks, they have put something special together. The show has taken a beloved classic and added some wonderful touches whilst retaining all that is magical about the tale. Whether you’re an ardent fan of the film or not, you will love this.
It’s magnificently performed, by a multi-talented cast of a beloved classic, with a sensational soundtrack.
Its showing until Saturday with matinees on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are available from the box office or online here https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/dirty-dancing/regent-theatre/
