DIRTY DANCING: Tech, Opening, Press, and the Dress

Wow, what a week this has been! I've hardly had a chance to catch my breath in the whirlwind of it all, but I'm loving every second. We moved into our new home at the Piccadilly Theatre last Thursday for technical rehearsals and were warmly greeted by the theatre's amazing team.

First item of business was finding my new dressing room, which I get to stay in for seven whole months instead of my usual three weeks as it was with previous touring venues. And my dressing room is just perfect. It even has a little sitting room for guests. I've already started making it my own with pictures, flowers, and of course lots of snacks. I always like stocking the fridge with coconut water and fruit, as well as having a big bag of almonds on hand for inevitable interval munchies. My biggest temptation now is walking by the Nespresso store everyday and fantasising about buying a coffee machine to have in my dressing room. So far, I've shown true restraint! ;)

Technical rehearsals went far more smoothly than we anticipated. Our Heads of Department are all so dedicated and efficient that with their clear vision for the show, we completed tech at a much quicker pace. We were even able to sneak in an extra dress rehearsal, meaning our new cast members got a couple more runs of the show than scheduled. This made us all feel more confident for our first preview on Saturday night.

First preview was such a rush, with a packed house and lots of adrenaline. I've been feeling so full of emotion this week, and it all culminated in our first performance in the West End. In many ways, it feels like a different show from the tour, and I'd like to think we've set the bar even higher for our run at the Piccadilly.

Saturday night quickly gave way to our first double show Sunday, and as those in London will know, one of the hottest weekends we've had in the capital for years. And, boy oh boy, was it HOT! 'Bikram' Theatre was the only way to describe it. I basically existed on a diet of frozen yogurt and iced coffee!

Not only does the heat make it extra challenging to perform (especially dance), but it proves a mean feat for our wigs department to keep all of our hairstyles for dropping and loosing their curls. With my 'Baby' wig, this is a real obstacle. I was running off stage for my quick changes, only to be doused in hairspray, and pinned from every angle. They did an amazing job, though, fighting the hot, humid climate and keeping my wig iconically frizzy.

With Monday off, I spent half the day resting from the weekend's shows, and the other half running around like a headless chicken preparing for my sister's arrival from Los Angeles, and, of course, for our press night. I'd been exchanging emails with an incredible stylist called Angie Smith, and turned London upside down looking for dresses she'd suggested for the big night. Because I'd left it so late, I couldn't order online and have the dress arrive in time, so I was in a bit of a pickle.

Meanwhile, Tuesday arrives, as does my sister, fellow actress Jana Winternitz, and I'm still without a dress. We then wake up Wednesday morning, the day of, and make a last ditch effort shopping trip to the mother of all department stores Harrods, and, literally within ten minutes of entering, find my favourite dress Angie had suggested in my size on the mannequin. It was serendipitous!

So dress in hand, I head to the theatre for a pre-show notes sessions with our director and to gather my thoughts for the performance ahead. I was bowled over by the lovely flowers and good luck gifts, and just buzzing with anticipation. My goal for the night was to lose myself in the role and have a good time, and I can honestly say that I did. I can't deny the nerves and pressure I felt before going on, but once I was out there I felt buoyed by the wonderful audience, and support of my friends and family in the crowd. I've always dreamed of performing in London, and being there on stage felt like the greatest honour. I will never, ever forget the incredible audience reaction to 'Time of My Life'. Looking out to see everyone on their feet brought joyful tears to my eyes.

After the show finished, a few of my family and friends came up to join me in my dressing room as I got ready for the after party, cracking open some bubbly for the occasion. We then joined the other revellers, first stopping at the Dirty Dancing red carpet for photos and interviews. The energy there was electric, and I felt so proud to be a part of the show. Getting to celebrate such a magical night with my family, close friends, and all of my fellow dirty dancers was terrific. It was a night I will always hold close, a night that will always bring the biggest smile to my face.

Jill stars as Baby in Dirty Dancing, running at the Piccadilly Theatre.

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