Introduction
Dirty Dancing is a classic romantic drama that has been beloved by audiences since its release in 1987. The movie follows the story of Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman, played by Jennifer Grey, as she falls in love with the resort’s dance instructor Johnny Castle, played by Patrick Swayze. The film was an instant hit, grossing over $214 million worldwide and becoming one of the most successful independent films ever made.
This article will explore the filming locations and sets used in Dirty Dancing. We will look at the iconic setting of the Mountain Lake Resort, where much of the movie was shot. We will also examine other shooting locations used in the movie, and find out what it was like on-location with the cast and crew. Finally, we will take a look at the behind the scenes work that went into creating the set of Dirty Dancing.
Exploring the Filming Locations of Dirty Dancing
The majority of Dirty Dancing was filmed at the Mountain Lake Resort in Virginia. Built in 1887, the resort had fallen into disrepair by the time the movie was being filmed. The producers decided to use the location as it perfectly fit the script – a rundown resort with a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains.
Other locations around Virginia were used for certain scenes in the movie. These included the Natural Bridge of Virginia, which was used for the campfire scene, and the nearby town of Roanoke, which was used for some of the establishing shots.
A Look Back at the Iconic Setting of Dirty Dancing
When the script for Dirty Dancing was first written, the setting of the Mountain Lake Resort was integral to the story. The script called for a rundown resort in the middle of nowhere, with a beautiful lake and mountains in the background. The producers knew they had found the perfect location when they stumbled upon the Mountain Lake Resort.
The setting of Dirty Dancing has become iconic in pop culture. The film has been praised for its realistic depiction of life in a small mountain town, and many viewers have been drawn to the beauty and charm of the resort. The movie has also become a touchstone for those who grew up watching it, and it continues to be a source of nostalgia for many.
Revisiting the Mountain Lake Resort from Dirty Dancing
The Mountain Lake Resort still stands today, and visitors can tour the grounds and experience the movie for themselves. The resort offers a variety of facilities and accommodations, including a spa, golf course, tennis courts, and a marina. Guests can also enjoy the scenic view of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Visitors to the resort can tour the property and visit the sites featured in the movie, such as the iconic log cabin where Baby and Johnny danced, or the lakeside gazebo where Baby sang ‘I Had the Time of My Life’. There are also guided tours available for those who want to learn more about the filming locations used in Dirty Dancing.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of Dirty Dancing’s Set
Creating the set of Dirty Dancing was no easy task. The production team had to transform the rundown resort into a lush and inviting place, while still staying true to the original vision. To do this, they built several new structures, such as the dance studio and the cabins.
In addition to building new structures, the team also had to dress the set with period-accurate furniture and decorations. This included sourcing vintage items from flea markets and antique stores, as well as commissioning custom furniture pieces. The team also worked hard to make sure the set looked lived-in and was filled with props and decorations that accurately reflected the time period in which the movie took place.
Reliving the Magic: On-Location with Dirty Dancing
Visitors to the Mountain Lake Resort can experience the magic of Dirty Dancing firsthand. Many fans of the movie have visited the resort to re-create their favorite scenes, such as the famous lift or the climactic final dance. The resort also offers classes that teach visitors how to dance just like Baby and Johnny.
The resort also hosts regular events that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Dirty Dancing. These events include screenings of the movie, trivia nights, and even dance competitions inspired by the film. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a unique experience, the Mountain Lake Resort is the perfect place to relive the magic of Dirty Dancing.
Conclusion
Dirty Dancing is a timeless classic that has captivated audiences for decades. Much of the movie’s success can be attributed to its iconic setting – the Mountain Lake Resort. From the behind the scenes work that went into creating the set to the on-location experiences offered at the resort, there is much to explore about the filming locations of Dirty Dancing.
Whether you’re a fan of the movie or just looking for a unique experience, visiting the Mountain Lake Resort is the perfect way to relive the magic of Dirty Dancing.
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