REVIEW | Dirty Dancing, Dominion Theatre
★★★★
Reviewer - BECKY
*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.
Nobody puts this show into the corner! Dirty Dancing returns to the Dominion Theatre for a limited season after its successful 2022 season. This show does a terrific job of keeping the film's legacy alive with remarkable choreography, nostalgic set design and a cast of enormous talent. Returning to the forefront is Michael O’Reilly as heartthrob Johnny Castle and Kira Malou as the ever-so-sweet and innocent Baby.
O’Reilly and Malou absolutely radiated chemistry throughout their performance. These are, of course, tough shoes to fill with so many fans of the movie booking to see this show. Comparisons are definitely bound to be made, but with years under their belts playing these roles, we were definitely in safe hands. Kira shone with her portrayal of Baby. Bubbly, pure and comedic at times, she remained extremely likeable throughout the whole show. Michael O’Reilly kept the stern tone with Johnny and kept the audience, without lack of a better word, swooning whenever he was on stage. We also had some incredible vocals by Colin Charles, Danny Colligan & Lydia Sterling, who, the latter, was an absolute powerhouse!
The set design by Federico Bellone, who also directed, was minimal but very effective. We had enough to make us believe we were truly at Kellerman’s, keeping the memory of the movie alive. With that being said, the vast stage never felt empty. The excellent direction allowed the stage to always have some presence, whether that be with Kellerman’s band giving us a familiar song from the film or through magnificent dance numbers. There was so much to be dazzled by with this production.
Austin Wilk has choreographed the show since 2012, during its run at The Piccadilly Theatre. The dancing is upbeat, electric and, of course, very “dirty”. I found myself entranced by so many of the ensemble’s dance numbers through scene changes. I always appreciate a show that allows its ensemble to shine.
The show touches on themes of diversity, which I think is so important for a production set in the early 60’s when racism was at an awful peak. We hear the famous “I have a dream” speech by Martin Luther King and how those of the time were affected by fighting for their rights and the rights of others. I thought this was a beautiful addition to the show and really showed how we have all come to love those around us, something that wasn’t particularly reflected at the time the movie was released.
The songs and music are a huge part of Dirty Dancing. The live musicians are really part of the action, performing not only for the guests of Kellerman’s but for the audience as well, to a well-received reception. They provided a real-life feel to the show, allowing you to feel a part of the Kellerman’s community.
I was lucky enough to sit in stalls row D and had an excellent view. Any closer and I possibly could’ve suffered with it being a slightly higher stage, so I wouldn’t recommend going for any closer seats.
Dirty Dancing was an absolute treat, it was feel-good, cheesy, and everything you could ask for from a movie adaption live on stage. There is truly something to enjoy for those who love the classic film or for those who have yet to experience it. I think this production will hopefully introduce theatre to a whole new audience and I wish the cast and crew a very successful run at The Dominion before it embarks on another UK & Ireland tour from the 25th of May!
Dirty Dancing : The Classic Story on Stage is playing at The Dominion Theatre until 29th April. Book tickets from £27.50 here.
