Hi Baby! Have I Got News For You…
The story of Dirty Dancing is a classic that should be known to everyone and the musical rendition is a literal translation of the 1987 film, brought to life (just with a little added pizzazz from an all singing and all dancing cast)! The iconic musical first hit the West End in 2006 (for a record-breaking five years at the Aldwych), returning in 2013, and is now back once again for a national tour.
The show itself is fun, brilliantly directed and whilst there are the usual baddies, (Robbie), it does not take itself too seriously –everyone at this point knows what to expect. What is unusual about this musical is that is leans heavily towards the dancing, (to be expected), and the majority of songs are performed by the supporting stars such as Danny Colligan, Lydia Sterling and Colin Charles. The set is pretty basic, which I understand has always been the case with a lot of the scenes being very short, which in some instances made parts feel rushed or that they were added in unnecessarily but overall, a great show.
Images above courtesy of Amelia Wheatcroft-Brown
The casting of the musical is superb with a personal favourite being Penny Johnson portrayed by the amazing Georgia Aspinall. Completely mesmerising when she is on stage and incredible at what she does, I couldn’t take my eyes of her when it was her turn to strut. The standout performer by a mile for me!
Baby (Kira Malou) and Johnny (Michael O’Reilly) have an excellent on-stage chemistry (who as my reports inform me are a real life Baby and Johnny, which may explain the almost too good acting! – although I am sure the on-stage chemistry would have been just as believable regardless).
Of course, Dirty Dancing isn’t Dirty Dancing without “The Lift” to the background of Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life”.
The performers were met with a huge standing ovation with an exciting bit of audience participation at the end which got everyone feeling part of the show. A show I would definitely recommend and would love to see again.
Book you tickets now to see Dirty Dancing at The Grand Theatre Leeds or look out for a performance where you live. You will LOVE it!
Review by Amelia Wheatcroft-Brown @ameliawbrown
Images supplied
