Theatre Magic: Music, Dancing and Laughter.

There are some films that never really leave us, and Dirty Dancing effortlessly transported us back to the classic story, but this time the story was told on stage.

I knew I was in for a healthy dose of nostalgia. The music, the dancing, the romance and, of course, memories of the fabulous Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey in the original 1987 film.

But what I wasn’t expecting was quite how much fun I would have along the way.

The moment the familiar music begins, you are straight back to Kellerman’s and that unforgettable summer of 1963.

There are songs you recognise immediately, plenty of high-energy dancing and those moments that everyone in the audience is waiting for. You can almost feel the anticipation building as Johnny and Baby’s relationship develops.

The choreography brings an energy to the stage that simply can’t be replicated on a television screen. The ensemble keep the action moving, while Johnny and Baby’s developing relationship provides the emotional heart of the story.

And then there are the characters. Baby, Johnny, and one very entertaining sister.

But I particularly enjoyed seeing Baby’s sister Lisa given her moment in the spotlight.

Lisa’s audition is so funny, especially because her singing and dancing are deliberately so bad! It is one of those scenes where you find yourself laughing because you already know what is coming — and yet it still works.

When Lisa finishes her audition and receives huge applause, you can’t help but join in.

It is a lovely reminder that Dirty Dancing isn’t only about Johnny and Baby. The supporting characters bring plenty of humour and personality to the story too.

And beneath all the fun, there is a serious message.

Baby’s summer at Kellerman’s opens her eyes to a world beyond the comfortable life she has known. The story touches on prejudice, inequality, social class and standing up for what is right.

So underneath the music, laughter and romance, there is a surprisingly strong moral storyline.

The memories we make along the way

One of my favourite moments actually happened during the interval.

I met two lovely mothers who were enjoying the show with their daughters.

There was something really special about seeing them making a day of it together. Four women, sharing a theatre experience that will hopefully become one of those memories they talk about for years to come.

Yes, we go to see the performers. We go for the music, the dancing, the story and the spectacle, but one of the reasons I love live entertainment is also about the people we meet.

The conversations we have and the memories we create along the way.

Have I had the time of my life?

Well, I certainly had a very enjoyable time!

Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story on Stage delivers the nostalgia, the music, the dancing, the romance and plenty of laughs. If you loved the original film, you will find a warm, familiar nostalgic shared audience experience, filled with brilliant dancing, memorable music, nostalgia, and laughter.

And perhaps that’s why Dirty Dancing The Musical continues to have such enduring appeal.

Some stories entertain us. Some remind us of another time, and some make us smile while reminding us that the best memories are often the ones we create together.

Now, where did I put my dancing shoes?

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