Reviewed by Emily Crombie
Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage by Eleanor Bergstein, directed by Federico Bellone and produced by Karl Sydow opened last night at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh. A fabulous and energetic show from start to end.
The iconic story is set in the summer of 1963 at Kellerman’s Holiday Camp. The Houseman family enjoy a vacation as the personal guests of Max Kellerman. Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman (Kira Malou) blossoms from the sheltered Daddy’s girl as she falls for the dancer Johnny Castle (Michael O’Reilly). She learns how the world works as she tries to help Penny (Simone Covele) as she has an abortion and steps into her dance role.
It very much follows the same lines as the film, recreating the pivotal moments, even the lift scene in the river is created by the use of screens and sound effects!
The show is creatively staged using the ever-moving scenery to transfer location, show the passage of time and change in the atmosphere.
It has a full score of musical numbers, played by Kellerman’s Band headed by Mile Russell, that we are all very familiar with including Be My Baby, (I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life, Do You Love Me?, In The Still Of The Night (I’ll Remember), Hungry Eyes and Hey! Baby.
The Festival Theatre is located on Nicolson Street so easily accessed as it is a short walk from Waverly Station and on the main bus route. There is also on street parking in the area. The theatre itself is tradition in style set behind the modern foyer and bar area. The seating is comfortable though not that spacious. We sat in the stalls where the visibility was excellent.
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £35 to £65.50 (booking fees may apply).
Dirty Dancing is at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh from 4-9 March 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.capitaltheatres.com or call the box office on 0131 529 6000.
Festival Theatre, 13/29 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9FT | 0131 529 6000
