The film was released in 1987, made on a low budget but became a box office hit making stars of Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. The coming of age drama telling the story of a teenager's relationship with her dance instructor won the Oscar for best original song.
The film was adapted for the stage in 2004 as a musical, Dirty Dancing: The Classic Story on Stage. In the West End it opened at the Aldwych Theatre on October 23, 2006 with the highest pre-sell in London history. The West End production closed on 9th July 2011 after a five year run, prior to a two year national tour. The next big production coming to the Aldwych is the play Cool Hand Luke another cult hit film starring the iconic Paul Newman. The lead role is played by Marc Warren.
The film remake will be directed by Kenny Ortega, a choreographer on the original film who was trained by Gene Kelly and has directed the High School Musical trilogy and the World tours of Michael Jackson. He has the support of original star Jennifer Grey who tweeted "I love @Kennyortega and trust that he will do something special #DirtyDancingRemake." Internet gossip is already speculating as to who will take the leads with suggestions such as Justin Timberlake, Derek Hough, Emma Stone or Lea Michele from Glee...hopefully the posting suggesting Justin Bieber is just a hoax!
The release date for the film has yet to be confirmed by the production company. Before you head to your nearest cineplex, check out if the Dirty Dancing tour is coming to a theatre near you!
[posted by Louise, 11/08/2011]