Dirty Dancing at The National Theatre
The summer of 1963 has returned to Washington. Dirty Dancing: The Musical has settled into The National Theatre on Pennsylvania Avenue, bringing the story of Baby, Johnny, and that unforgettable season at Kellerman's mountain resort to vivid life on stage. Based on the beloved 1987 film that became a generation-defining phenomenon, this touring production delivers exactly what fans have been hoping for: electrifying dancing, a soundtrack packed with timeless hits, and an atmosphere so infectious that audiences can barely stay in their seats. With performances running only through October 4, 2026, time is short to catch it.
The story will feel like coming home for anyone who grew up with the film. Frances "Baby" Houseman, played by Annalese Starzec, arrives at a Catskills resort with her family expecting a quiet summer. One night she wanders into a secret after-hours party for the resort staff and finds herself captivated by Johnny Castle, the street-smart dance instructor played by Blake Zelesnikar. When Johnny's dance partner Penny lands in serious trouble, Baby volunteers to take her place, and what begins as a crash course in the mambo becomes a summer of first love, newfound independence, and hard lessons about the world beyond the resort's gates. The stage adaptation was written by Eleanor Bergstein, the same writer behind the original screenplay, and is directed by Lonny Price.
Above all else, the dancing is the reason to buy a ticket. Darrell Grand Moultrie's choreography is energetic, sensual, and razor sharp, and even when the dancers are working in the background of a scene they lift the entire production. Zelesnikar commands the stage as Johnny with a natural, effortless rhythm, while Starzec charts Baby's transformation from awkward beginner to confident partner with real charm. The montage in which Baby learns to dance has been singled out as a particular delight, capturing exactly the screen-to-stage magic audiences hope for. Olivia Cece makes a powerful impression as Penny, drawing gasps with her soaring high kicks and delivering a moving dramatic performance as well.
The music is in excellent hands too. Rather than having the leads sing, the production gives many of the beloved songs to two resort workers, Elizabeth and Billy, played by Ashley LaLonde and Ethan Peterson. Both are powerhouse vocalists, LaLonde bringing star wattage to her numbers and Peterson proving a smooth and charismatic crooner, and the moments when their voices join together rank among the evening's high points. The supporting cast earns its share of praise as well, with Bryan Fenkart bringing dignity and strength to Baby's father, Gina Lamparella offering wit and warmth as her mother, Lily Kren balancing big laughs with genuine heart as sister Lisa, and Dan Klimko showing sharp comic timing as Neil Kellerman.
The production's design has also drawn admiration. Brett J. Banakis's fluid, mobile set glides the action from the dance floor to the staff quarters and from one day to the next without losing momentum, and the show's inventive take on the famous lake scene manages to honor the original moment while feeling entirely theatrical. The musical also leans into the history of 1963, weaving in references to Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights movement, and the war in Vietnam, while themes of reproductive rights, class, and social change land with surprising relevance today. And yes, every iconic moment fans are waiting for is here. The production builds to each one with care, and when the big finale arrives, complete with that legendary lift, the theater erupts in cheers.
Whether you have watched the film dozens of times or are discovering Kellerman's for the first time, Dirty Dancing: The Musical is a joyous night out packed with dazzling choreography, terrific vocals, and a soundtrack that will have you tapping your feet long after the curtain call. It is the kind of show that practically dares the audience to sit still, and few manage it.
Dirty Dancing: The Musical plays through October 4, 2026, at The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC. The running time is approximately two hours and twenty minutes, including one intermission. With only a few performances remaining, now is the time to grab your seats and have the time of your life.