Interview: Dirty Dancing’s Michael O’Reilly

Seen by millions across the globe, the worldwide smash hit musical Dirty Dancing – adapted from the hugely successful 1987 film starring Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze – tells the classic story of Baby and Johnny, two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds, who come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives.

Here’s Michael O’Reilly, who takes on the Swayze mantle as Johnny, the rough-diamond dance instructor who falls in love with the 17-year-old Baby during the latter’s family summer holiday.

This is your first major professional role. How is it feeling?
Yes, my first professional contract after graduating from musical theatre college last July. It has been the most incredible experience and I have learned more than I ever imagined, from the show, my colleagues and even the audience. The responsibility I choose to see as a positive: a chance to positively influence our amazing company and leave the audience with a smile on their face.

Alex Wheeler as Billy and Michael O’Reilly as Johnny in ‘Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage’. All pics: Alastair Muir

Patrick Swayze’s role as Johnny in the film is iconic. How much do you keep that performance in your mind and let it guide you, and how much do you try and put it aside and make the role your own?
Patrick is a legend and I am beyond thankful for the opportunity to play this role he created. I take inspiration from the passion and commitment he gave to the role, but ultimately I have created my own version of Johnny. There is no way to copy or imitate Patrick, so I have connected to the character with my own personal life experience and trust the audience will come along on the journey with me.

How much, if at all, do you identify with Johnny?
I can totally relate to him, he is a young man who has a passion for dance and is struggling to be true to himself, find acceptance and overcome his personal battles: things we can all relate to. However, I do not identify with the character in any other aspect. The character is an incredible challenge and I have filled him with a lot of myself but I never bring Johnny home with me after the show.

Michael and Kira Malou (as Baby) lead the full ‘Dirty Dancing’ cast

The show must be full of physical and emotional challenges. Which moments do you find the most challenging?
It is one great big physical challenge, all of the dance numbers are maximum energy and intensity and Johnny has very little time off stage. This is part of the show I really enjoy, though, I come from a sports background and I enjoy the physical challenge! Towards the end of the show, the scenes are charged with emotion: the moment when Johnny leaves, for example, is a challenge every night.

Committing 100 per cent to the story and the circumstances, being fully present in the moment and finding as much truth as possible: all this is challenging, great fun and I absolutely love it.

Dirty Dancing – the Classic Story on Stage is at Bristol Hippodrome until July 6. For more info and to book tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com/venues/bristol-hippodrome

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