Dirty Dancing: The Musical

What's Dirty Dancing: The Musical Like?

Dirty Dancing: The Musical follows 17-year-old Frances "Baby" Houseman during her summer vacation at a Catskills resort in 1963.

Baby meets Johnny Castle, the resort's dance instructor, and becomes involved in the lives of the resort’s working-class staff. When Johnny's dance partner, Penny, faces an unwanted pregnancy, Baby helps her get an abortion by borrowing money from her father. To cover for Penny, Baby steps in as Johnny’s new dance partner, and despite her inexperience, they develop a romantic connection.

Their relationship faces challenges due to class differences and misunderstandings, especially when Baby's father wrongly blames Johnny for Penny’s situation. Johnny is later fired after being falsely accused of theft, but returns for a final dance with Baby, culminating in the iconic performance of "(I've Had) The Time of My Life."

The musical explores themes of love, class, and personal growth, set against a backdrop of electrifying music and dance.

Is Dirty Dancing: The Musical Good for Kids?

Dirty Dancing: The Musical is generally considered to be more suitable for older teens and adults rather than young children.

The show contains mature themes, such as an unwanted pregnancy, an illegal abortion, and romantic relationships that include sexual undertones. These themes are handled in a way consistent with the 1987 movie, so if you've seen the film, you can expect similar content in the stage production.

There is also some mild language, sensual dance routines, and the exploration of class and social issues that may be more appropriate for a mature audience. The official recommendation for the show often suggests it is suitable for audiences aged 12 and up, depending on individual maturity levels.

Dirty Dancing: The Musical on Broadway Background