Dirty Dancing remake underway

Back in 1987, Kenny Ortega was hired as choreographer for the film Dirty Dancing, a young girl’s coming-of-age romance set at a summer resort, starring Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze.

Fast forward almost 25 years, and this time Ortega is preparing a remake of the hugely popular film – this time as director – according to an announcement from Lionsgate Films.

After the success of Dirty Dancing, Ortega went on to choreograph and direct the High School Musical series, and Michael Jackson’s This Is It.

"The opportunity to direct ‘Dirty Dancing’ is like returning home for me," said Ortega. "Growing up in the 60s on the dance floor helped define me as a person and as an artist. I am looking forward to assembling a great creative team and an exciting cast to bring ‘Dirty Dancing’ to the screen for a new generation.

"Patrick Swayze set the bar for men dancing in the movies as Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire did before him. I believe everywhere you look there is evidence that the talent is out there and I can’t wait to begin the process of discovering the next breakout triple-threats.

"I want to thank writer-producer Eleanor Bergstein for originally choosing me to choreograph ‘Dirty Dancing’ and for her continuous support,” he added.

The new film will pay tribute to the original story of first love, sexual awakening, the power of dance, and the classic tale of teenage Baby’s forbidden romance with Johnny Castle. The remake will incorporate classic songs from the 1960s, hits from the original film as well as new compositions.