Review: Dirty Dancing at Sunderland Empire
I had the time of my life last night and I owe it all to Sunderland Empire
This fun, saucy film has been adapted perfectly for the stage with almost no changes. The stage production is upbeat and joyful, making it hard for the smile to be wiped from our faces. I’m buzzing in my seat; this is one of my favourite films so I’m keen to see how it’s been adapted for stage.
The set transports us – it’s simple, yet effective. We’re at Kellerman’s Mountain Resort, it’s the summer of 1963. This Magic Moment begins and we’re ready. Penny (Ellie Fergusson) takes the stage and blows us away with her incredible dancing – a perfect casting. I’ve never seen high kicks so, well… high! My jaw is on the floor at her raw talent and the way she moves with Johnny (Joel Benjamin) together as one.
But the chemistry between Baby (Charlie Varlet) and Johnny is something else. It’s electrifying. The actors so easily gravitate towards each other just like Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze. We’re on the journey of Baby and Johnny together, taking in every moment, and every glance with… Hungry Eyes. I’m blown away with the cover of that hit song. Tim Edwards sounds exactly like Eric Carmen, it’s a bit spooky.
A particular standout is Max Mulrenan from the ensemble who captures my attention the second he starts dancing. His joy seeps through into his moves making it difficult to look away. He is just so effortless.
As the end draws near, India Chadwick (as Lisa) makes the whole audience laugh with her incredible rendition of her Hula song. Then Baby is (rightfully) removed from the corner, the lights dim and it begins: ‘now I’ve had…’
Oh, the lift! How can I not talk about the lift? Done so effortlessly and executed so perfectly, it really makes me think I could do that (please do not try it at home). My breath is taken away watching the iconic dance in full. I’ll even admit that some tears form. I’m overwhelmed – this is it! The whole cast come together for the finale, an ode to the iconic ending of the film.
As the actors take their bows, I find myself on my feet. Such an incredible show deserves a standing ovation and the rest of the audience in Sunderland Empire’s auditorium agree and rise to their feet too.
I could go on about Dirty Dancing until the cows come home but I won’t… I’ll let you go to Sunderland Empire (or a theatre near you) and let it speak for itself.
And remember – no one puts Baby in the corner.
