BWW Reviews: DIRTY DANCING - A Fun Night Out!

In what has become one of the most popular shows around the world, Dirty Dancing the musical opened in Melbourne this week. Where Dirty Dancing fails as a show it picks up in fun and froth, perhaps the key to its success. The part musical, part dance show is a perfect representation of the film, with every moment true to its iconic 1987 source. This updated version of the original employs projections that make up the majority of the set, often times comically presenting moments from the film, in what becomes the mantra of the show. It has a laugh at itself, doesn't take itself seriously at all and if you can accept that notion then you will be entertained, If by nothing else, then by the dancing itself, which, in this production is quite simply stunning.

At the core of Dirty Dancing's choreography is Maddie Peat as Penny, who provides an array of wow moments. As does Kirby Burgess as Baby whose performance is exciting in its freshness, with Burgess really stamping herself as a new leading lady in Australia. Thank goodness for a new face and a new talent.

Kurt Phelean as Johnny Castle brings an enormous amount of charisma and appeal to the role. His chemistry with all onstage is particularly palpable and ultimately believable. While, unlike any other musical, the protagonists in Dirty Dancing do not sing. That is left to an ensemble led by music theatre debutant Mark Vincent, whose voice is clearly of quality, but seemingly wrong for the period of songs which he is performing.

The band lead by musical supervisor David Skelton is dynamic, punching out classic 60s tunes that not only compliment, but enhance the action they're accompanying. If you isolate the choreography and the score and can look past the cheesiness of the story then Dirty Dancing is a fun night out. Perfect for hen's parties or a night out with the girls, leave your husband at home because he would no doubt be checking the football scores on his mobile phone from the outset.

Dirty Dancing

The Princess Theatre Melbourne

Ticketmaster.com.au