Dirty Dancing is a tale that has been inspiring lovers from around the world for decades. However, this much-loved classic is getting a brand new look for more modern audiences, giving a new generation the chance to enjoy the show in all its glory – and it’s currently turning the West End pink at the Dominion Theatre. 

But is the show worth the ticket price, and should you make a special trip to enjoy the original magic of Dirty Dancing in the West End this year? We’ll be taking a look at what the show is and how it’s performed overall to help you find out a little more about whether or not it might be the right choice for your next theatre visit.

There’s something quite captivating about the love story tale that’s shared in the original Dirty Dancing film, with the tale of Baby and Johnny capturing the hearts of many young girls and boys alike.

Now that the film’s original fans have matured, there could be a new opportunity to connect a younger audience with the story again thanks to this new reimagining, live on the West End stage. Indeed, the show follows many of the original themes and tales of the original story, but with a few slight twists to keep it feeling unique.

From the iconic songs and moments that we all know and love – including the much-loved (I’ve Had) the Time of my Life – through to the collection of bubbly and vibrant characters and their plotlines, it’s clear to see that the show offers much of the original attraction as the film itself.

The appeal of any show is irrefutably defined by its cast and the talent who brings it to life – and, with this in mind, it’s fairto say that the cast of Dirty Dancing definitely have their work cut out to bring the performance to life and give the original film justice.

As far as casting goes, they couldn’t have gotten the choice more spot-on, with Michael O’Reilly as Johnny Castle and Kira Malou as Frances “Baby” Houseman, both reprising their performances from the recent Dirty Dancing tour. 

Some critics of the show have been a little hesitant to praise the main cast’s performances, owing to a slight lack of energy, especially in comparison to the stellar acting displayed in the original film version. However, after attending the gala night, we can safely say, the energy was there, the iconic dances were there and the iconic lines such as “nobody puts Baby in a corner” created huge screams from the audience. Maybe being on a West End stage gave the performances the boost it needed?

While the show has had great success, its reception with some audience members have been ever so slightly less stellar. It has also become apparent that the show may have taken a little too much direction away from the original, making some of the plot points hard to understand for audiences who haven’t previously seen the film version – we heard some mixed reviews as we were walking out of the theatre into the hustle and bustle of the street. 

Though the show has received a somewhat mixed appeal, with reviews equally showering the performance with praise and critiquing it, we’re confident that Dirty Dancing remains one of the hottest attractions for early 2022 – perfect for a fun night out and to reminisce.

Indeed, this memorable and much-loved storyline is nevertheless brought to life by the talented cast. While the performance might not be to everyone’s cup of tea, it will surely strike a chord with anyone who loved the original film and wants to experience the same rush of romanticism and elation they experienced when watching it at the cinema for the first time.

For those wanting the chance to reimagine the Dirty Dancing film in all of its glory and wonder, the show will be available for just ten weeks in the West End, starting from the 2nd of February.

Book your tickets here.