We chatted to Charlotte about returning to the production of Dirty Dancing, which returns to the Dominion theatre from the 21st January.
Hi Charlotte, how does it feel to be part of Dirty Dancing again? It feels surreal but wonderful to be back! Dirty Dancing was my first professional job back in 2007 and went on to be a part of my career for five years on and off, so understandably this show holds a very special place in my heart. I’m very grateful to be checking in at Kellermans again and working with an exciting new team (even if the legs are aching a little bit more this time!).
What do you think it is about this story that continues to appeal to so many people? It’s just so uplifting, it’s the ultimate summer romance story and it’s one that somehow everyone can relate to; whether you’ve already experienced a first love or you’re still waiting to, it’s joyful and it’s hopeful. Team that with the killer soundtrack and dance numbers, you just can’t not want to watch it.
When did you first come across Dirty Dancing? I first saw the film when I was in my second year at college. My housemate at the time, Paul- Michael Jones, said to me “I can’t believe you call yourself a dancer and you haven’t ever seen the movie Dirty Dancing!?” so with that we sat down and watched it and I was hooked. Little did we know then we’d be playing Johnny and Penny onstage together 5 years later on the tour!!
How do you see the character Penny? Penny is fierce and she is brave. She has been in survival mode since she was 16 when she was kicked out of home and dance has been a bit like her superpower ever since. As much as I love whacking a leg as Penny and getting to dance my socks off, I also feel very passionately about doing justice to the characters strength and courage. Penny’s storyline resonates now more than ever with the recent changes to Roe vs. Wade in the USA.
What do you love the most about this show? I think what I love most about this show is the reaction every night from the audience! It is wild! The moment the opening chords of the soundtrack blast out the crowd erupt and then the party in that auditorium just doesn’t stop!
For those who haven’t seen the show live, why should they come along? Every line, every song, every dance that you loved from the movie is brought back to life on stage,
it’s two hours of pure nostalgia. You’re guaranteed to be on your feet dancing and quite literally having the time of your life at The Dominion. It’s the ultimate feel-good night out.
By Emma Clarendon
Dirty Dancing will play at the Dominion Theatre from the 21st January until the 29th April 2023. You can book your tickets here.