Tonight sees the return of Dirty Dancing, the Musical UK tour here in Blackpool.
Dirty Dancing the movie was released back in 1987, starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. The film based on the screenwriter’s own childhood was released to worldwide acclaim, holding the record for the first ever movie to sell more than 1 million copies of the home movie. The soundtrack is also the best-selling album of all time in Germany. There’s no denying its popularity and catchy quotable one-liners such as ‘Nobody puts Baby in a corner.’
I am a big fan of the movie and the soundtrack, but I have never seen the stage show until this evening, I didn’t really know what to expect, but I had high hopes that I would enjoy it as much as the movie.
Without wanting to give too many spoilers, the show is not what you would call a traditional Musical, what I mean by that is that the characters on stage are not performing songs as part of the storyline.
The focus is of course on the dancing.
The script follows very closely to the original screenplay and all of the action is very fast paced. The dancing and storyline are told alongside onstage live musicians and vocalists. The musicians were excellent.
At times the show has a very nostalgic feeling almost like being transported back to first watching the film.
Visually the casting is spot on, and all of the details in place excellent wigs, perfect accessories and of course, incredible choreography and performance.
The choreography pays homage to the iconic traditional routines. Believe me, you will not be disappointed, this talented ensemble does not miss a beat. Particularly the partner work and lifts are spectacular.
The story centers around a family of four and their summer holiday, the youngest daughter Baby, ‘Charlie Varlet’ takes dancing lessons with the resident entertainment team stud Johnny, played by ‘Joel Benjamin.’ The pair work very well together with believable chemistry and very clean routines.
A special mention to Ellie Cutler covering the role of Penny this evening and doing a stellar job with undeniable talent and technique whilst carrying some heavy moments in the plot. Also, India Chadwick as the comedic older sister Lisa Houseman.
The show started at 7:30 pm, there was a short interval and finished at 9:45.
A vocal standout performance of the evening ‘In the still of the night.’
Age restrictions, an advisory of 14+ however under 16s must be accompanied by an adult and under 5s will not be permitted. There are quite a lot of adult themes within the storyline and the choreography.
With performances running until Saturday 19th September. Book your tickets now, don’t miss out, you’ll have ‘The time of your life’!
Reviewer: Rebecca Casey
Reviewed: 8th September 2026
North West End UK Rating: