Definitely a night to remember, the touring production of Dirty Dancing enthralled audiences at Stoke's Regent Theatre with its emotive acting, outstanding dancing, and a memorable sound track that transported me back to a period where love and coming of age seemed the most important purpose of existence. 

Characters Francis 'Baby' Houseman and Johnny Castle seemed to touch a chord with the audience as they took us through the universal experience of wanting to find that special person who you want to be with forever - a desire often associated with youth, but very much applicable to all.

Dirty Dancing was released in 1987 and was an immediate success with its love story angle, superb choreography and original soundtrack. The film also catapulted lead characters - Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, to stratospheric heights.

To transfer such an iconic film to the stage is no mean feat but Kira Malou (Baby) and Michael O’Reilly (Johnny) do it supreme justice as they portray unlikely lovers from different sides of the tracks. Their presence on stage is mesmerising as they weave emotion and chorographical genius. Both are outstanding in their respective roles.

The musical opens in a holiday resort in 1963 America - post Cuban missile crisis and a time where Dr Martin Luther King was calling for civil rights, peace and activism. It was a transitional time for youth and Francis 'Baby' Houseman is about to have the time of her life during her family's summer vacation. The narrative very much focuses on the cultural norms of the era and challenges perceptions with authenticity and humour while providing fabulous entertainment.

A sterling cast, excellent musicianship and sublime choreography make this a must watch show. Georgia Aspinall is awesome in the role as Penny and Jack Loy perfectly fatherly as Dr. Jake Houseman. The cast and ensemble is of the highest standard and the film has moved seamlessly from screen to the stage whilst maintaining its excitement and ability to entertain and delight.

Ultimately, Dirty Dancing remains a big draw because of its relatable narrative - the transition from childhood to adulthood, love and heartache are all present, and then there's the dancing...

A classic that continues to delight while providing an uplifting night at the theatre.

Five stars

Reviewed by Carol Lovatt at Regent Theatre, Stoke-On-Trent on Tuesday 4 July, where the production continues to show until Saturday (8 July).  Dirty Dancing then shows at The Alexandra, Birmingham, from Tuesday 18 to Saturday 22 July.