Billy Elliot, presented by Universal Theatrical Group, Working Title Films, Greene Light Stage, Michael Coppel Entertainments and Louise Withers Presents, the 10th Anniversary Australian and now plays Melbourne’s Regent Theatre until April 19, 2020.
Image – Sam Tabone
Based on the film of the same name, Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, gritty, heart-warming and feel-good celebration following the journey of a young boy raised in a small British mining town. Set against the backdrop of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family, the whole community and changes his life forever.
Sharing the celebrated lead role are Omar Abiad (12, from Brisbane), River Mardesic (11, from Melbourne), Wade Neilsen (13, from Newcastle) and Jamie Rogers (13, from Canberra). The boys were cast following extensive auditions, and after months of intensive rehearsals will alternate in the role of Billy in the Australian tour of Billy Elliot the Musical. All four boys are making their professional debut playing this most extraordinary and inspiring role.
Starring alongside these talented boys as the tough but supportive ballet teacher Mrs. Wilkinson is Lisa Sontag.
Image – Instagram
Justin Smith joins the cast in the role of Dad, Billy’s stoic father.
Image – Sam Tabone
Featuring music by the legendary Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot the Musical has been seen by over 12 million people worldwide.
Image by James D. Morgan
CURRENT AUSTRALIAN PRODUCTION ACCOLADES
★ ★ ★ ★ 1⁄2 ‘Extraordinarily powerful…Billy Elliot feels as timely as ever…joyously uplifting’ – LIMELIGHT
★ ★ ★ ★ 1⁄2 ‘There might not be a better musical to love than Billy Elliot…breathtaking…a show that reminds us we’re stronger, and better when we look out for each other’ – THE GUARDIAN
★ ★ ★ ★ 1⁄2 ‘Bravo, Billy Elliot a show with huge heart, hearty laughter and stinging reality’ – DAILY TELEGRAPH
★ ★ ★ ★ 1⁄2 ‘Sheer enjoyment and musical theatre magic meet social realism in an inspirational night out’ – THE MUSIC
★★★★ ‘Slick and fast-moving. The young performers don’t just steal the show, they own it’ – SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
‘Billy Elliot brilliantly mines a rich seam of raw emotions…combines comedy and tragedy, fantasy and reality for an unforgettable theatre experience’ – THE AUSTRALIAN
‘Billy Elliot’s a genius giving glimmers of light and hope…a triumph…innovative and original’ – ADELAIDE ADVERTISER
MELBOURNE – REGENT THEATRE UNTIL APRIL 19
TICKETS ON SALE NOW https://billyelliotthemusical.com.au/
By Melinda Sullivan
Rehearsal Images by – Sam Tabone
