05 March 2015 (released)
06 March 2015
Dirty Dancing was a landmark movie in 1987 and has since been reprised on stages all over the world. The movie captured our hearts and imagination, and over 25 years on, the classic movie continues to gain momentum. Written by Eleanor Bergstein, the story is charming and timeless and translates beautifully on stage.
Opening night of Dirty Dancing -The Classic Story on Stage at the elegant Princess Theatre in Melbourne transported the audience back to the 1960's when life was less complicated. Set in the summer of 1963, 17-year-old "Baby", Frances Houseman (Kirby Burgess) embarks on a family holiday to the Catskills that changes her life the moment she meets Johnny Castle (Kurt Phelan).
Not interested in the activities at Kellerman’s country club, Baby finds herself drawn to the staff quarters where she meets Johnny. Johnny introduces Baby to the seductive world of "Dirty Dancing", and although they are polar opposites, love ensues. When Baby steps in to help Johnny’s dance partner, Penny (Maddie Peat), her relationship with her father (Adam Murphy) is tested.
With each scene I was pulled into Baby and Johnny's word effortlessly, just as I was back in 1987. Kirby Burgess is incredible as Baby Houseman and drives the narrative forward with her honest and endearing performance. Maddie Peat’s extraordinary dance moves captivated the audience with every turn.
The stage production evokes emotions with its heart pounding rhythms and raunchy dance moves. On the downside, some of the scenes felt rushed and lacked sentiment.
Highlights included, Hungry Eyes, She’s Like The Wind, Do You Love Me? and the legendary (I’ve Had) The Time Of My. Special mention goes out to Mark Vincent for his radiating rendition of In The Still of the Night, it was clear the audience loved it.
Sensational performance and one that will leave you filled with nostalgia.
