Go have the time of your life

This slick production of Dirty Dancing retains most of the iconic lines – yes even that water scene, thanks to a creative use of the stage –  and familiar tunes without sitting in the shadow of the film.

An announcement from the Kellermen team immerses the audience and get the show off to a strong start, especially with the live band and ensemble dancing led by Carlie Milner as the magnetic Penny, all eyes fixated on her as she sashays across the stage.

The characterisation of Baby, played by Kira Malou was overly meek to start, despite all the other characters insisting otherwise, so her impassioned arguments later in the show come somewhat left field, assisted by the slightly more political tone of the production bringing up segregation and other topics of the time. 

Austin Wilks’ performance as Johnny was equally weak to start with, flat intonation coming across as dull rather than mysterious. With the film remaining a rite of passage for over 30 years, the actors had big shoes to fill, but they more than succeeded with an audible moment any lingering thoughts of  Patrick Swayze evaporated.

The magic starts once they start dancing together. The magnetism is palpable as Johnny teaches Baby the routines, and Malou’s dancing abilities are well disguised until the grand finale making for several adorably clumsy moments. 

Kudos to the wardrobe team who provided not only an impressive array of outfits, but some incredible quick-changes.

The show concluded with a whirlwind of dancing and the whole auditorium on their feet too.

The UK tour of Dirty Dancing is at The Belgrade, Coventry until Saturday 6th November. Purchase your tickets here https://www.belgrade.co.uk/events/dirty-dancing/

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