DIRTY Dancing fans are in for the time of their life as the show based on the popular film arrives at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre.

It is the summer of 1963, and 17-year-old Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman is about to learn some major lessons in life as well as a thing or two about dancing.

On holiday in New York’s Catskill Mountains with her older sister and parents, she shows little interest in the resort activities, and instead discovers her own entertainment when she stumbles across an all-night dance party at the staff quarters.

Mesmerised by the raunchy dance moves and the pounding rhythms, Baby can’t wait to be part of the scene, especially when she catches sight of Johnny Castle the resort dance instructor.

Her life is about to change forever as she is thrown in at the deep end as Johnny’s leading lady both on-stage and off, and two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives.

The show is full of passion and romance, heart-pounding tunes from the 1950s and 60s, and sensationally sexy dancing – it is no wonder it has been a hit around the world.

As a huge fan of the film – starring the late Patrick Swayze as Johnny and Jennifer Gray as ‘Baby’, I had high hopes for the show – it certainly didn’t disappoint. The show stays very true to the film and you fall in love with all the characters once again.

Dancing is the main focus of the show and you are hooked from the first dance number, right through to the sensational finale for the “nobody puts Baby in the corner” moment – one of my favourite moments of stage and screen, of all time.

The iconic role of Baby is portrayed perfectly by Katie Hartland who portrays the character’s innocence and growth as a character throughout the show. Katie makes her professional musical theatre debut carrying the watermelons as she takes on the role of ‘Baby Houseman’, having graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in 2015.

Lewis Griffiths is the star of the show and is perfect in the role of Johnny – moody, charming and charismatic all rolled into one. His dance techniques are excellent and the ladies of the audience enjoyed his performance judging by reactions to a certain scene! Lewis has had a prolific career in musical theatre, most recently starring as ‘Nick Massi’ at the Grand Theatre on the UK tour of Jersey Boys. Other roles in UK tours include Ghost and Legally Blonde, and West End credits include Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Rent and Whistle Down the Wind.

Dirty Dancing is a must see – for any film-fan or just simply want to enjoy a fun night out - and will run at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre until Saturday (December 3).