Currently, I am on tour with a stage adaptation of Dirty Dancing. My partner wears a tuxedo nightly as he and his bandmates at Kellerman’s start the show with “This Magic Moment.” Audiences delight in this experience eight times a week. Over the last 11 months, the show has been performed more than 350 times in 32 cities, and I’ve witnessed it over 200 times, seeing it fully twice.
The film premiered in the summer of 1987, right before I entered seventh grade. After watching it, I urgently needed a pair of Keds and capri pants (Didn’t you?). I pleaded for a perm like the main character’s, but my mother was not on board.
As I exited the stage door tonight, I realized that this narrative encapsulates numerous life lessons. Here are some noteworthy takeaways:
- Mark Houseman: “When I’m wrong, I admit it.”
In a pivotal scene, Mark acknowledges his mistakes regarding Johnny, demonstrating the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions. Acknowledging our errors is a valuable lesson we can all learn. - Johnny Rivers: “I won’t regret it.”
Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Johnny and the protagonist embraced their summer romance despite the risks, teaching us that living with “what ifs” is far worse than taking chances. - Laura Rivers: “We’re performing in two days, and you haven’t shown me the lifts. I’m doing this to save you, but honestly, I want to drop you!”
Laura emphasizes the need to express our feelings when we feel unappreciated. She dedicated herself to mastering intricate dances, and Johnny needed to recognize her efforts. - Penny White: “How many times have you told me not to get involved with them?”
Penny comments on the budding romance between Laura and Johnny, reminding him of the professional boundaries they must maintain. Before crossing lines, it’s crucial to consider the potential consequences. - Laura Rivers: “Have you had many partners?”
This question often leads to unnecessary discomfort. True love means accepting one another without judgment about past relationships, so sometimes it’s best to let sleeping dogs lie. - Johnny Rivers: “It’s not about the beat; it’s a feeling, a heartbeat.”
Johnny’s wisdom encourages us to trust our instincts and immerse ourselves in experiences. Surrendering to the moment can elevate the ordinary to extraordinary. - Johnny Rivers: “Last month, I was scraping by, and now I’m being showered with gifts. One day you’re on top, the next, you’re not.”
This highlights the transient nature of life. Johnny’s experiences remind us to appreciate the present and embrace what we have. - Johnny Rivers: “I usually perform the last dance of the season. This year, I was told not to, but I’ll dance with someone who’s shown me what it means to stand up for others—someone like Laura Rivers.”
In a powerful moment, Johnny showcases his character by returning to declare his love for Laura publicly. He shines a light on her worth and refuses to let societal disapproval dictate their love.
Each night, thousands witness these heartfelt lines. I’ve seen grown adults wipe away tears as they leave the theater. After 28 years, I thought I was immune to the magic of Dirty Dancing, but a recent viewing brought back those emotions. Perhaps I even shed a tear when Johnny and Laura finally accomplished that iconic lift.
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In summary, the lessons from Dirty Dancing remind us about the importance of honesty, seizing opportunities, valuing our contributions, maintaining boundaries, accepting one another, trusting our instincts, appreciating the present, and standing up for what we believe in.
Keyphrase: Life lessons from Dirty Dancing
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