Billy Elliot, based on Stephen Daldry’s acclaimed film from 2000 tells the story of community, acceptance and one boy chasing his dream against all the odds. After its many successful years in the West End, Billy Elliot finally makes a long-awaited return in a new re-imagined production from director Nikolai Foster and choreographer Lucy Hind at the Leicester Curve.
What has and always works for Billy Elliot is how it’s one of the very few productions that manage to make the transition from screen to stage so well. It takes the memorable moments from the film and adds in an array of musical numbers (music from Elton John and Lyrics from Lee Hall). Combined it becomes a musically catchy and enlarged version of the beloved film.
Once the curtains come up, an empty and stripped back stage appears, with just a few gates and some scaffold poles. It gives the audience an industrial setting reflecting the minor strike and creating a sense of realism. The focus as a result is spent on the actors and not the surroundings. A clever setting choice from designer Michael Taylor.
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Though if we’re looking at individuals particularly then a few need to be praised. Of course the titular character firstly, Billy (Jaden Shentall-Lee) was superb. Perfectly embodying a young boy who has a dream to chase but struggles in a town that appears so gassing it. Shentall-Lee’s moments on his own were a joy to say, ‘Angry Dance’ and ‘Electricity’ showcased just how talented this young boy really is. Other mentions to the other Elliot family members, older brother Tony (Luke baker) and Dad, Jackie (Joe Caffrey). Both played their characters so well, allowing the audience to share their frustrations and question as to why they’re stuck in their ways and can’t support Billy’s dream. However, as the show progresses they begin to show a different side and we begin to sympathise. Finally, praise to Mrs Wilkinson (Sally Ann Triplett), Billy’s dance teacher. The pair have wonderful on-stage chemistry and a natural bond that’s instantly heartwarming to watch, any scene with the pair together is moving, comical and joyous.
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Taking nothing away, it’s a heartwarming and energetic production about chasing your dream and the coming together of a community that will leave you wanting to dance right out of the theatre all the way home.
Review by George Butler
Rating: ★★★★
Seat: Stalls D22 | Price of ticket: £56.00