photo courtesy of the Hollywood Pantages

“Dirty Dancing – the Classic Story on Stage” premiered Tuesday at the Hollywood Pantages. The play opened to an excited audience eager to see beloved characters from the classic 1987 movie.

The story follows 17-year-old Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman who, while on vacation with her older sister and parents, discovers an exciting new dance scene.

Lead actress Gillian Abbott played a convincing Baby and actor Christopher Tierney portrayed with ease Johnny Castley, the mysterious and wild-hearted dance instructor. The two had a natural chemistry on stage that made their love story believable.

The supporting cast also gave great performances, moving gracefully on stage and dancing and singing familiar tunes from the movie. During the final dance number, Tierney and Abbott leaped across the stage to seamlessly reenact the famous lift scene as actors Adrienne Walker and Evan Alexander Smith sang a stirring rendition of “(I’ve Had) the Time of My Life.”

Sound and special effects, such as a projection screen, immersed patrons into the show to recreate scenes from the movie and transition from one act to another.

“Dirty Dancing” runs through Feb. 21. The performance schedule is Tuesday through Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

The show is recommended for ages 12 and up. Children under 5 will not be admitted to the theatre, and all patrons must have a ticket, regardless of age.

Tickets are available for purchase at www.hollywoodpantages.com or www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at (800) 982-2787, and at the Hollywood Pantages Box Office The Hollywood Pantages is located at 6233 Hollywood Blvd. For information, visit www.hollywoodpantages.com.