THERE is only one Patrick Swayze who sadly is no longer with us however this cast lead by the excellent Lewis Kirk (Johnny Castle - understudy) ensured a performance of which the main man would have been proud.

Set in 1963 the Houseman family take their annual vacation at Kellerman's a fabulous hotel that cater for the well to do and and celebrity clientele but more importantly a testing place for emerging entertainers...

Here Baby the diminutive (Roseanna Frascona ) was superb, you could be forgiven for mistaking her as Jennifer Grey fell in love and learned to dance by the man she idolised Johnny - who would not let anyone put baby in the corner.

The choreography was excellent, Claire Rogers (Penny Johnson) whose legs went on forever, was simply mesmerising almost stealing the show.

The vocals of Wayne Smith (Billy Kostecki) and Colin Charles (Tito Suarez) also deserve a mention, the orchestra too under the musical direction of Richard Weedon were fab, after all without the music there would be no Dirty Dancing The scenery was terrific and with clever use of video throughout the water scene, practising the lift was very amusing.

A rousing finale with Johnny black leather jack slung over his shoulder came from the rear of the theatre to perform 'the lift' to rapturous applause as he and Baby danced to (I've Had) the Time of My Life to bring this wonderful show to a close.

Go and see this record breaking national tour and have the time of your life, runs until 5th April at Bristol Hippodrome.

There is no doubt you will leave with a song in your heart, a smile on your face and dancing in the aisles on your way out.

Review by Gill Wilson