Billy Elliot: The Musical - Victoria Palace Theatre

SYNOPSIS

Billy Elliot: The Musical

Billy Elliot The Musical is the heart-warming tale of a young boy's struggle to break free from the expectations of his working class roots during the time of the 1984-85 miners' strike, and to follow his calling to become a dancer. Currently showing at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London's West End, the musical is a story of hope, of triumph over adversity, and of the realisation that no one can stand in the way of change. It is a stunning piece of dramatic theatre that is sure to capture your heart and mind completely.

The critically acclaimed 2000 film release Billy Elliot acts as inspiration for the musical, and there is a strong crossover of talent between the two pieces of work. Lee Hall, the man who scripted the screenplay for the film, developed the book and lyrics for the musical version. Director Stephen Daldry and choreographer Peter Darling were also involved in both projects, as were British based production company, Working Title Films. The music for Billy Elliot The Musical is entirely the work of Sir Elton John. 

From boxer to dancer - the story of Billy Elliot
 
Billy Elliot is an eleven year-old boy with a gift for dancing. He lives with his father and brother in a fiercely socialist coal mining community in County Durham during the coal miners' strike of 1984/85. Surviving on strike pay in the belief that their picket line actions will halt the Tory government's pit closure programme, Billy's father and brother struggle to make ends meet. It is a world of hard hats, boxing gloves and regular confrontations with police in riot gear -- a world that Billy Elliot wants no part of.

A chance meeting with Mrs Wilkinson and her girls' ballet class however sets Billy on a different life path. Recognising his talent, Mrs Wilkinson encourages Billy to harness what he has, and sees that there is enough raw potential there for Billy to audition for the Royal Ballet School in London. After much soul-searching, Billy's father swallows his pride and turns his back on the picket line to return to work so Billy can afford to follow his dream. The ending is awe-inspiring and enough to send a shiver up your spine!

Box office success

Since its debut at the Victoria Palace Theatre in March 2005, Billy Elliot The Musical has touched the minds and hearts of thousands. It has won four Laurence Olivier Awards, including best choreography and best sound design. Best Actor awards have also been won by the cast of young actors who have played Billy. Liam Mower, who at thirteen years of age became the youngest ever actor to scoop the coveted title, is among them.

Such has been the success of Billy Elliot The Musical in the West End, international versions of the stage musical are now planned. These include productions in Australia, Canada and Japan. 2008 could see Billy Elliot hit Broadway for the first time too -- possibly with some alterations to help the 'Britishness' of the setting and dialogue be more attractive to theatre audiences stateside.

NOTE: This show is not suitable for small children as it contains some strong language. The producers recommend that children be aged 12 years or above.